Kalanchoe millotii, also known as Millot Kalanchoe, is a succulent from Madagascar. It features distinctive velvety, silvery-green leaves with a compact growth habit, suitable for indoor and outdoor settings in appropriate climates. Its foliage is densely covered with tiny whitish hairs, giving it a soft, felt-like texture and scalloped edges. While small, yellow-green flowers may appear in dense clusters during summer, the plant’s unique leaves are its main ornamental feature. This species is relatively low-maintenance.
Essential Care for Kalanchoe millotii
Light Needs
Kalanchoe millotii thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. Direct, intense afternoon sun, especially during hot summers, can scorch its leaves, so provide shading during peak hours. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is often suitable, but avoid direct contact with windows during intense summer heat. Insufficient light can lead to leggy or stretched growth.
Watering Practices
This succulent requires a “soak and dry” watering method. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next session. Overwatering is a common issue, leading to root rot, as Kalanchoe millotii stores water in its fleshy leaves and is adapted to arid conditions. Adjust watering frequency seasonally: less in winter during its dormant phase, and more frequently during active growing seasons like autumn and spring.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining soil mix is important for Kalanchoe millotii to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal. Alternatively, create your own by combining potting soil with amendments like coarse sand, perlite, or pumice. These gritty materials enhance drainage and aeration. Clay pots are often recommended as their porous nature allows for better breathability and moisture regulation in the soil.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe millotii prefers moderate temperatures and is not cold-hardy, requiring protection below 30°F (-1.1°C). Warm conditions, remaining below 85°F (29.4°C) during summer, are suitable. If temperatures drop, bring potted plants indoors. The plant tolerates various humidity levels, but high humidity can increase the risk of fungal growth. Good air circulation helps manage humidity.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing Kalanchoe millotii supports growth, though these succulents are not heavy feeders. During the active growing season (spring through summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength bi-weekly or monthly. Granular slow-release options are also suitable. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period to prevent over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Propagating Kalanchoe millotii
Propagating Kalanchoe millotii is achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem section, 2-4 inches long, making a clean cut just above a leaf node. Remove any lower leaves to prevent rotting once planted.
After taking cuttings, allow them to sit in a warm, dry place for two to three days to form a callus. This callousing prevents rot when the cutting is introduced to soil. Once calloused, plant the cutting in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, ensuring the soil is lightly moist but not waterlogged. Keep newly planted cuttings in bright, indirect light, and water sparingly until roots develop, which takes a few weeks.
Addressing Common Kalanchoe millotii Issues
Overwatering is the most frequent cause of problems for Kalanchoe millotii, leading to root rot. Symptoms include soggy soil, black or mushy roots, wilting, and yellowing leaves. To address this, promptly remove the plant from its pot, trim affected roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil with adequate drainage holes.
Insufficient light causes Kalanchoe millotii to develop leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems. Moving the plant to a brighter location with ample indirect sunlight can rectify this and promote more compact growth.
Pest infestations, such as mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects, can affect Kalanchoe millotii, especially indoor plants. These pests feed on plant sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or a sticky residue (honeydew). Minor infestations are managed by wiping pests off with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.