Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to the arid and semi-arid regions of South Africa. For centuries, indigenous Khoisan peoples have utilized this plant for its unique properties. Traditionally, Kanna was chewed or prepared to alleviate feelings of hunger and thirst, and to foster a sense of well-being. Growing this remarkable plant can be a rewarding experience for any enthusiast seeking a unique addition to their garden.
Essential Growing Conditions for Kanna
Kanna thrives in environments that mimic its native South African habitat. The plant requires ample sunlight, performing best in full sun to partial shade, though direct intense sunlight should be avoided for young seedlings to prevent scorching. It demands well-draining soil, similar to what cacti and other succulents prefer. A sandy or gritty mix provides the necessary drainage and aeration. Kanna prefers a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral.
The plant prefers temperatures of at least 16°C (60°F) and is highly intolerant of frost. In climates where winter temperatures drop below freezing, Kanna must be brought indoors. Low humidity is also beneficial for Kanna, as its succulent nature makes it susceptible to rot in consistently moist conditions.
Planting Kanna
Kanna can be started through both seeds and cuttings. When planting from seed, scatter seeds directly onto the surface of a well-draining succulent soil mix. Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil, without overwatering, is important during the germination phase, which can take several weeks. Soaking seeds for a few days can aid sprouting. Once seedlings emerge, they benefit from bright light, but direct, harsh sun should be avoided until they are more mature.
Propagating Kanna from cuttings is straightforward. Select a healthy stem and allow the cut end to dry and form a callous before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. When transplanting Kanna, ensure the chosen pot has ample drainage holes. If planting directly into the ground, choose a sunny location with sufficient space, as Kanna can spread, and enrich the planting site with cactus soil or compost to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Ongoing Kanna Care
As a succulent, Kanna is highly susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Initially, water sparingly until the roots are well-established, gradually increasing frequency as the plant matures.
Kanna requires minimal fertilization. A balanced, low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents can be applied periodically during its active growth period. Kanna can be vulnerable to slugs, snails, and aphids. A gentle soapy spray can manage aphid infestations.
Harvesting and Winterizing Kanna
Harvesting Kanna involves specific timing and methods to ensure the potency of the plant material. The optimal time to harvest Kanna is generally just before the plant begins to flower, as this period is associated with the highest concentration of its active compounds. When harvesting, use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts, which helps minimize stress to the plant and encourages healthy regrowth. The entire plant, including stems and leaves, contains beneficial alkaloids, with some reports indicating higher concentrations in the stems.
After harvesting, proper drying is crucial to preserve the plant’s integrity and prevent mold. The harvested material should be dried in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, allowing for a slow and uniform drying process to maintain the quality of the compounds.
For winter care, especially in regions with cold temperatures, Kanna plants must be protected from frost. Container-grown plants should be moved indoors to a frost-free location that maintains a temperature above 16°C (60°F). During this dormant period, watering should be significantly reduced. If Kanna is grown directly in the ground in a cold climate, its rhizomes can be lifted and stored in a cool, dry, frost-free environment, kept barely moist until spring. Kanna typically experiences about nine inactive months, followed by a relatively short period of new growth and flowering.