The Dumbo Ears plant, Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri, is a popular succulent known for its distinctive foliage. Its common name comes from its large, paddle-shaped leaves, which resemble the ears of the Disney character. This plant is a relatively easy-to-grow succulent, suitable for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts, thriving in various indoor environments.
Getting to Know Your Dumbo Ears Plant
The Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri is a perennial or biennial succulent native to northwestern Madagascar. It is known for its large, fleshy leaves, which can grow up to 20 inches long. The leaves are typically bronze-green to gray-green, often covered with a waxy white coating, and frequently splotched with maroon-brown blotches.
A distinguishing characteristic is its ability to produce numerous small plantlets along the margins of its leaves. These plantlets, also called bulbils, are miniature versions of the parent plant that develop roots while still attached. They can easily detach and grow into new independent plants. The plant’s stems are typically short and may branch from the base.
Essential Care for Dumbo Ears
Light
Dumbo Ears plants thrive in bright, indirect light. An ideal indoor location is near a south or east-facing window with filtered natural light. While they tolerate some direct morning sun, prolonged exposure to intense midday sunlight can scorch their leaves, causing wilting or brown spots. Outdoors, partial shade or diffused sun is suitable.
Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and dull foliage color. Rotating the pot ensures all sides receive adequate light.
Water
As a succulent, Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri stores water in its leaves and is drought-tolerant. Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
To check for water needs, feel the top 2 inches of soil; if dry, it’s time to water. During spring and summer, water weekly or every ten days. In fall and winter, reduce frequency to every two or three weeks as growth slows. Ensure excess water drains freely and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
Dumbo Ears plants need a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging. A cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended for proper drainage. You can enhance drainage by adding perlite, coarse sand, or pumice.
Unglazed clay pots aid moisture control by wicking away excess water, promoting root aeration. Repotting every one to two years with fresh soil is beneficial.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri prefers warm climates and is sensitive to cold. The optimal temperature range is 64-68°F (18-20°C). Temperatures below 61°F (16°C) slow growth, and exposure near 40°F (4°C) can be fatal.
Bring the plant indoors if temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C) and protect it from drafts. The plant tolerates average household humidity, preferring a medium to low humidity environment.
Fertilizer
Dumbo Ears plants do not require extensive fertilization. During their active growing season in spring and summer, apply a balanced succulent fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength. This prevents over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Fertilize every four to six weeks during this period. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter dormancy. Watering the plant before applying fertilizer helps prevent root burn and improves nutrient absorption.
Multiplying Your Dumbo Ears Plant
The Dumbo Ears plant is easy to multiply, primarily through the plantlets that form along its leaf margins. These small plantlets, also called “pups” or “offsets,” often develop roots while still attached to the mother leaf.
To propagate, gently remove plantlets once they are large enough or show rooting. They can detach spontaneously or be trimmed with a clean, sharp knife. After removal, allow them to sit for a few days to form a callus over the cut end, which prevents rot.
Once callused, plant them in a well-draining succulent potting mix, ensuring the base is just above the soil line. Maintain slightly damp soil and provide bright, indirect light to encourage new growth. While leaf cuttings are possible, propagation from plantlets is generally the fastest and most successful method.
Troubleshooting Common Dumbo Ears Issues
Incorrect watering is a frequent problem. Overwatering causes mushy, yellowing leaves and root rot. Underwatering leads to shriveled or wrinkled leaves. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow the soil to dry completely between waterings prevents these issues.
Insufficient light results in leggy growth and pale foliage. Move the plant to a brighter location or use artificial lighting to correct this. Sunburn, appearing as brown spots, indicates too much direct sunlight. Common pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids can affect Dumbo Ears. Manage them by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using diluted insecticidal soap, noting Kalanchoe species can be sensitive to some chemical treatments.
Important Considerations
The Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri, like other Kalanchoe species, is toxic if ingested. It contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, and in severe cases, affect the heart and central nervous system. Flowers tend to have a higher concentration of these toxins.
Keep Dumbo Ears plants out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Despite its toxicity, it remains a resilient and easy-to-care-for succulent, suitable for beginners who can ensure a safe environment.