The “knife plant,” Kalanchoe delagoensis, is a succulent known for its distinctive appearance and straightforward care. Also called Mother of Millions or Chandelier Plant, it is a popular addition to plant collections due to its ease of growth, appealing to both experienced gardeners and beginners.
Identifying the Knife Plant
The knife plant, Kalanchoe delagoensis, has unique physical characteristics. It features long, cylindrical leaves, often mottled greenish-gray with reddish-brown spots. These leaves can appear sharp or blade-like, contributing to its common name. The plant grows upright, reaching up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
A defining feature is the presence of numerous small plantlets, also called bulbils, that form along the edges of the leaves. These tiny plantlets resemble miniature versions of the parent plant and are a key identifier. It is also known as Mother of Millions or Chandelier Plant.
Caring for Your Knife Plant
The knife plant thrives in bright, direct sunlight, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. Indoors, a south or west-facing window provides ample bright, indirect light. Outdoors, it tolerates full sun but benefits from some afternoon shade to prevent sunburn during intense heat.
Water sparingly, as Kalanchoe delagoensis is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings before rehydrating thoroughly. During its summer dormant period, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
A well-draining succulent or cactus mix is ideal for soil, whether indoors or outdoors. For outdoor planting, sandy or loamy soil is suitable. Using a clay pot can further aid in wicking away excess moisture, preventing an overly wet environment.
Kalanchoe delagoensis prefers warm temperatures and low humidity. It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors if temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. High humidity can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilizing is generally minimal for this plant. If desired, a balanced succulent fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season, typically in spring and summer. Over-fertilization can harm the plant. Pruning is usually limited to removing spent flower stalks or trimming leggy growth to maintain the plant’s desired shape.
Propagating Knife Plants
The knife plant is easy to propagate due to its unique reproductive strategy. Small plantlets, or bulbils, form along the edges of mature leaves. These plantlets are miniature versions of the parent plant, complete with tiny roots.
When mature, these plantlets easily detach and fall from the parent plant. They readily root in any surrounding soil where they land. To propagate intentionally, collect these plantlets and place them on the surface of well-draining soil. They will quickly establish new plants.
Important Considerations
Kalanchoe delagoensis is toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant, especially the flowers, contain cardiac glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, more severe heart-related symptoms if consumed in large amounts. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.
Due to its prolific self-propagation through abundant plantlets, the knife plant has a high invasive potential in warm climates. It can escape cultivation and outcompete native species, becoming a problematic weed in many regions, including parts of the United States, Australia, and Africa. Responsible disposal of plantlets and keeping the plant contained, especially in areas where it is not native, is important to prevent its spread.