Kalanchoe beharensis, also known as Felt Plant or Elephant’s Ear Kalanchoe, is a distinctive succulent. Its large, triangular leaves are covered in fine, pale, velvety hairs, giving them a fuzzy texture. Native to Madagascar, it is a popular choice for indoor gardens due to its striking foliage and straightforward care.
Essential Care Requirements
Kalanchoe beharensis thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, but intense midday sun can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth.
Correct watering prevents root rot. As a succulent, Kalanchoe beharensis stores water in its leaves and prefers infrequent hydration. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to avoid waterlogging. During the spring and summer growing season, watering every two to three weeks may suffice. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter.
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Kalanchoe beharensis. Use a specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, which often includes perlite or coarse sand for drainage. The plant’s roots are susceptible to rot in consistently wet soil. A neutral to slightly acidic soil pH is suitable.
Kalanchoe beharensis prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 73°F and 90°F (23-32°C). Average room temperatures are suitable for indoor cultivation. The plant tolerates low humidity. Protect it from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as it is not frost-tolerant.
Fertilization should be minimal. During its active growing season in spring and summer, apply a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every few months. Over-fertilization can harm the plant by causing salt buildup. No fertilizer is needed during fall and winter dormancy.
Pruning Kalanchoe Beharensis
Pruning Kalanchoe beharensis is not a frequent requirement, but it can manage size, enhance shape, or promote bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves to redirect energy to new growth. Pruning also helps compact leggy plants caused by insufficient light.
Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts. Make cuts just above a leaf node, where new growth emerges. This technique helps shape the plant and encourages branching.
Repotting Kalanchoe Beharensis
Repot Kalanchoe beharensis every two to three years, or when it shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes, water sitting on the soil surface, or slowed growth. Repot during spring or early summer for best recovery.
Select a container slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, inspect roots, and remove old soil. Place the plant in the new pot, adding fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Water minimally after repotting.
Propagating Kalanchoe Beharensis
Kalanchoe beharensis propagates well from stem and leaf cuttings. Propagation is most effective during the spring or early summer growing season.
For stem cuttings, cut a section from the main plant using a clean, sharp tool. For leaf cuttings, twist a healthy leaf from the main stem. Allow cuttings to sit in a dry place for a few days to a week until the cut end forms a callus. Once callused, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop.
Common Issues and Solutions
Root rot is a frequent problem, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include mushy stems or yellowing leaves. Adjust watering to allow soil to dry completely between waterings, and ensure adequate drainage. Severe cases may require repotting into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming affected roots.
Kalanchoe beharensis can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Signs of infestation include distorted leaves or visible pests. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can treat these pests. Regular inspection helps detect infestations early.
Leggy growth indicates insufficient light. Correct this by moving the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight. Pruning can also encourage a bushier growth habit.
Scorched leaves result from too much direct, intense sunlight. Relocate the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light or provide shade during the hottest parts of the day.