Kalanchoe behartii, known as “felt plant” or “felt bush,” is a distinctive succulent prized for its unique, fuzzy foliage. Its soft, velvety leaves create textural appeal, making it a popular choice for indoor or outdoor spaces.
Understanding Kalanchoe Behartii
Kalanchoe behartii originates from Madagascar. This shrub succulent has thick, velvety, silvery-green leaves, covered in fine, felt-like hairs. These fuzzy leaves contribute to its drought tolerance by reducing water loss and storing water.
Kalanchoe Behartii Care Guide
Light Needs
Kalanchoe behartii thrives in bright, indirect light. It tolerates some direct morning sun, but intense afternoon sun can cause leaf scorching. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth. An east-facing window is ideal.
Watering Practices
As a succulent, Kalanchoe behartii is drought-tolerant and susceptible to overwatering. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage, then allow the soil to dry completely. During spring and summer, water every 10–14 days. Reduce watering to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Avoid standing water, which can lead to root rot.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended, or a blend of regular potting soil with coarse sand or perlite. Ensure proper drainage and aeration. Pots need drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe behartii prefers temperatures between 73°F and 90°F (23°C and 32°C). Average indoor humidity levels are suitable. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Keep it away from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
Kalanchoe behartii does not require frequent fertilization. During its spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once or twice. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating Kalanchoe Behartii
Propagating Kalanchoe behartii is primarily achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. The best time is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem 4–6 inches long and cut just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top.
Allow cuttings to air dry for 1–3 days until a callus forms. This helps prevent rot and disease. Once callused, plant cuttings 1–2 inches deep in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Water lightly and place in bright, indirect sunlight. Roots begin to form within 1 to 3 weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Overwatering is a common problem for Kalanchoe behartii, often leading to root rot. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, or mushy stems. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant, trim dark, mushy roots, and repot in fresh, dry, well-draining soil. Adjust watering practices to prevent recurrence.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light. To address this, move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect light. Pruning leggy stems just above a leaf node encourages bushier, more compact growth.
Kalanchoe behartii can be affected by common succulent pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation helps with early detection. Organic solutions like insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective in treating these pests. Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning) stems from overwatering, low light, or nutrient deficiencies. Correcting these factors helps resolve leaf issues.