The Felt Bush, Kalanchoe beharensis, is a captivating plant known for its unique, fuzzy foliage. Its distinctive velvety leaves add textural interest and visual appeal, making it a favored choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Understanding Felt Bush
The Felt Bush (Kalanchoe beharensis) is a succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family, also known as the stonecrop family. Native to Madagascar’s Behara region, it thrives in arid, dry shrubland conditions.
This evergreen shrub features large, triangular, often undulated leaves up to 14 inches long. They are typically olive-green, sometimes blushing reddish-brown in ample sunlight. A defining feature is the soft, felt-like texture from fine, pale hairs covering both surfaces, which also protect against sun. The plant develops woody stems and can grow into a substantial, often tree-like form, reaching several feet in height.
Cultivating Felt Bush
The Felt Bush flourishes in bright, indirect light but tolerates some direct sun, especially morning exposure. Its fuzzy leaves provide natural protection, allowing it to withstand more intense light than other succulents. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal for daily bright illumination.
This plant requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root issues. A gritty, sandy soil mimicking its arid habitat is recommended. Many gardeners use a commercially available cactus or succulent potting mix, often containing perlite or coarse sand for enhanced drainage. The ideal soil pH for Kalanchoe beharensis is neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Water infrequently but thoroughly, using a “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During spring and summer, watering every one to two weeks may suffice. Reduce watering significantly in dormant winter months. Overwatering is a primary cause of plant failure, so monitoring soil moisture is key.
The Felt Bush prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65-85°F (18-29°C), and is not frost tolerant. It suits USDA hardiness zones 11-12 for year-round outdoor growth. While it tolerates dry indoor air, moderate humidity (around 50-55%) is preferred. Increase humidity by misting or placing the plant on a pebble tray.
Ongoing Care and Propagation
Felt Bush plants require minimal fertilization. During active growth in spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5 NPK) sparingly, every few months or monthly at a diluted strength. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup and damage the plant, so use caution. Fertilizing is not needed during fall and winter when growth slows.
Maintenance includes cleaning leaves to remove dust. Pruning can maintain shape or size; remove dead or unhealthy foliage. If the plant becomes leggy from insufficient light, trim it back to a lower leaf node in spring to encourage bushier growth.
Propagate Kalanchoe beharensis using stem or leaf cuttings, or offsets. Offsets from the parent plant’s base are the easiest method. For stem cuttings, cut a healthy section, allow it to callus for a few days to a week, then plant in well-draining succulent soil. For leaf cuttings, twist off a healthy leaf, callus it, then lay it flat on the soil surface with the cut end slightly buried. New plantlets will emerge from the leaf base. Both methods need bright, indirect light and infrequent watering until roots establish.
Potential Challenges and Safety
Overwatering is a common issue for Felt Bush, leading to root rot, which manifests as yellowing leaves, a softened center, or a collapsed stem. Ensure excellent drainage and allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Pests like mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can affect Kalanchoe beharensis. These pests feed on sap and can cause yellowing leaves or stunted growth. Inspect the plant regularly, especially leaf undersides and stem joints, to detect infestations early. Treat promptly with horticultural sprays or by physically removing pests.
Kalanchoe beharensis is toxic if ingested, containing cardiac glycosides harmful to animals and humans. Place the Felt Bush in locations inaccessible to pets and young children to prevent accidental ingestion. Wear gloves when pruning for safe handling.