The African Felt Plant, Kalanchoe beharensis, is a striking succulent prized for its unique, fuzzy foliage. Native to Madagascar, this plant is a popular choice for gardeners seeking an ornamental and low-maintenance addition to their collection. Its distinct texture and form make it a fascinating specimen for both indoor and outdoor cultivation in appropriate climates.
Understanding the African Felt Plant
The African Felt Plant’s leaves are covered in fine, pale hairs, giving them a distinctive velvety texture. These leaves are typically olive green, often developing a reddish-brown blush on their edges when exposed to ample sunlight. Triangular to lanceolate in shape, they grow in opposing pairs and can reach a considerable size.
While it can grow into a large, shrub-like form, reaching up to 20 feet tall in its native habitat, it generally remains more compact when grown indoors or in containers. Its stems become thick and woody over time, providing a sturdy structure for its substantial leaves. The plant’s slow growth rate makes it a manageable houseplant, allowing it to maintain a suitable size for indoor spaces.
Caring for Your African Felt Plant
Light Requirements
The African Felt Plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate full sun. Its fine leaf hairs offer natural protection, allowing it to handle more direct sunlight than other succulents. A south or west-facing window indoors is often ideal. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth, while excessive direct sun may scorch the leaves.
Watering Needs
As a drought-tolerant succulent, the African Felt Plant stores water in its leaves. Use a “soak and dry” approach: water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering commonly causes root rot, so it is better to underwater. During spring and summer, water every one to two weeks; reduce to every three to four weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, containing coarser particles like sand, perlite, or pumice, is highly recommended. Pots must have drainage holes. Repotting is infrequent, typically every two to three years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 26°C), and tolerates average indoor humidity. It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection below 30°F (-1°C). While good air circulation is beneficial, high humidity is not required and can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilizing
The African Felt Plant does not require heavy feeding. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced, diluted all-purpose or succulent fertilizer every few months. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter dormancy, as the plant absorbs fewer nutrients and excess fertilizer can cause burn.
Propagating African Felt Plant
Propagating the African Felt Plant is straightforward using both leaf and stem cuttings. For either method, allow the cut end to “callus over” for a few days before planting; this prevents rot. Once callused, plant in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, keeping the soil lightly moist until roots form. Stem cuttings root more readily, but leaf cuttings can also produce new plantlets. Place newly planted cuttings in bright, indirect light to support rooting and initial growth.
Common Challenges and Solutions
African Felt Plants are generally resilient, but improper care can lead to issues. Root rot, indicated by softening or blackening of the stem and lower leaves, results from overwatering or poor drainage. Adjusting the watering schedule and ensuring proper soil drainage is the primary solution. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, signals insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location for more compact growth.
Pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites can occasionally infest. Manage these by cleaning leaves, removing affected parts, or using insecticidal soap or diluted rubbing alcohol. Leaf discoloration or softness, distinct from root rot, can also stem from watering imbalances or extreme temperatures, requiring care adjustments.