The Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Fang’, also known as the Felt Plant, is a distinctive succulent appreciated for its unique and striking appearance. Its unusual, textured foliage and architectural form make it a captivating ornamental plant.
Unique Characteristics of Fang Kalanchoe
The Fang Kalanchoe is distinguished by its large, triangular leaves, covered in soft, velvety hairs that give them a felt-like texture. These leaves, up to 10 inches long, feature serrated or undulating edges. Its most notable characteristic is the series of prominent, tooth-like growths, or tubercles, on the undersides, which give the plant its “Fang” moniker.
Leaves typically display a silvery-green color, sometimes with bronze tips. As it matures, the plant develops an upright, often tree-like growth habit with a thick, woody stem. This slow-growing succulent, a cultivar of Kalanchoe beharensis from Madagascar, is primarily grown for its extraordinary foliage rather than its small, urn-shaped flowers.
Fang Kalanchoe Care Guide
Light
Fang Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect light. Indoors, place it near a window receiving 4 to 6 hours of filtered light daily. Some morning or late afternoon sun is tolerated, but direct, intense sunlight can scorch its velvety leaves. Leggy growth indicates a need for more light.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for this drought-adapted succulent. Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot, so it is safer to underwater. During the active growing season, water every two to three weeks; reduce frequency significantly in winter dormancy. Always check soil moisture before watering to prevent excess saturation.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is essential for Fang Kalanchoe, preventing root rot from waterlogged conditions. Use a specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, or create your own by combining regular potting soil with 50% to 70% gritty amendments like perlite, coarse sand, or pumice. Pots must have drainage holes. Repot every two years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound, moving up one pot size.
Temperature and Humidity
Fang Kalanchoe prefers warm temperatures, ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 27 degrees Celsius). It is not cold tolerant and can suffer damage below 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.7 to -1 degrees Celsius). It tolerates average indoor humidity, but avoid extreme fluctuations. Bring the plant indoors or provide protection during colder months in frost-prone regions.
Fertilizing
This succulent does not require heavy fertilization, being adapted to nutrient-poor environments. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced NPK fertilizer, such as a 5-10-5 blend. Dilute to half or quarter strength to prevent salt buildup. Fertilize every few months or once a month during this period, but avoid feeding during winter dormancy.
Propagating Fang Kalanchoe
Propagate Fang Kalanchoe through stem or leaf cuttings. The best time is during the spring or summer growing season. For stem cuttings, use a sterile, sharp knife or scissors to remove a healthy stem section. Allow the cut end to callus for several days to a week before planting in well-draining succulent soil.
For leaf cuttings, gently twist a healthy leaf from the plant, ensuring the entire base is intact. Similar to stem cuttings, let the leaf callus for several days before placing it on the surface of well-draining soil. Once planted, water sparingly, only when the soil has dried completely, to encourage root development. Bright, indirect light supports the rooting process, which can take a few weeks to a month.
Troubleshooting Common Fang Kalanchoe Issues
Common issues with Fang Kalanchoe often signal a need to adjust care. Mushy or yellowing leaves and a soft stem often indicate overwatering and potential root rot. To address this, allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. If root rot is severe, consider repotting into fresh, well-draining soil. Leggy, sparse growth indicates insufficient light, requiring a move to a brighter location.
Scorched leaves or brown spots suggest too much direct sunlight, requiring a shift to partial shade. Shriveled, wrinkled leaves or a general lack of growth may indicate underwatering or natural winter dormancy. Increasing watering frequency slightly during the growing season can resolve underwatering, ensuring the soil dries before the next application. Common pests like mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites can be managed by wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using diluted rubbing alcohol for localized infestations.