The Mother of Millions plant (Kalanchoe delagoensis or Bryophyllum delagoense) is a distinctive succulent known for its prolific reproductive habit. Its common name describes its ability to produce numerous miniature plantlets along its leaf edges. These plantlets create a fascinating, almost chandelier-like appearance, making it a popular and visually interesting addition to any plant collection.
Care Requirements
Light
Mother of Millions thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal for indoor cultivation. While it appreciates ample light, prolonged exposure to intense, direct midday sun can scorch or discolor its leaves. Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems and sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light, requiring a move to a brighter location or supplemental grow lights.
Watering
This succulent is drought-tolerant and stores water in its fleshy leaves, preferring its soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot and mushy stems. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Reduce watering frequency during winter dormancy, to about once a month or less.
Soil
Mother of Millions requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended for aeration and drainage. Regular potting soil can be amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage. Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant becomes pot-bound, to refresh the soil and provide adequate space.
Temperature and Humidity
The ideal temperature range for Mother of Millions is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It tolerates slightly cooler temperatures but is not frost-hardy; prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) can damage or kill the plant. This plant is adaptable and prefers average indoor humidity. High humidity is not necessary and can increase the risk of fungal diseases, so good air circulation is beneficial.
Fertilizing
Mother of Millions is not a heavy feeder but benefits from fertilization during its active growing season, from spring through fall. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for succulents or cacti is suitable. Dilute the fertilizer to a quarter or half of the recommended strength to prevent nutrient burn. Fertilizing once a month during this period is sufficient; winter fertilization is not required as the plant enters dormancy.
Toxicity and Handling Precautions
The Mother of Millions plant is toxic if ingested by humans or animals. All parts, including leaves, stems, and especially flowers, contain bufadienolides, cardiac glycoside toxins that affect the heart. Ingestion of small amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Larger quantities can lead to severe effects, including lethargy, weakness, labored breathing, heart palpitations, and potentially heart failure.
Keep Mother of Millions out of reach of children and pets. Wear gloves when handling the plant, especially when pruning or repotting, and wash hands thoroughly afterward.
Managing Prolific Growth
Mother of Millions earns its name from its ability to propagate readily through tiny plantlets that form along its leaf margins. These plantlets easily detach and root wherever they land, contributing to the plant’s rapid spread. This characteristic makes it easy to propagate but also means it can become invasive outdoors. To manage its prolific growth indoors, regularly remove any fallen plantlets from the soil. Growing the plant in containers helps contain its spread, especially where it naturalizes and outcompetes native vegetation.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Leggy growth indicates insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location or provide supplemental light. Mushy stems or yellow lower leaves indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot; reduce watering frequency and ensure soil dries between waterings. Brown or crispy leaves suggest underwatering or too much direct sun; ensure consistent moisture and protect from intense midday sun. Mother of Millions can attract pests like mealybugs or aphids. Inspect regularly and treat infestations with organic methods, such as rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab or insecticidal soap.