The ‘Lavender Scallops’ (Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi) is a succulent known for its fleshy, scalloped leaves, often displaying a lavender to bluish-grey hue with pinkish or brownish margins. Native to Madagascar, this drought-tolerant plant thrives in rocky, arid environments. It typically grows as a low-lying, spreading perennial with upright or creeping stems, reaching 8 to 24 inches tall. Many growers observe roots developing along its stems, extending into the air.
Understanding Lavender Scallops Aerial Roots
Aerial roots are specialized roots that form above the soil surface, emerging directly from plant stems. For ‘Lavender Scallops’, these adventitious roots are a normal part of its growth. Unlike subterranean roots, which anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients from the soil, aerial roots serve multiple functions. They absorb moisture from the air, assist in nutrient uptake, and provide additional support to the plant’s sprawling stems.
These roots are distinct from the primary root system and are generally not an indication of plant distress. Their presence often reflects the plant’s natural adaptation for survival and propagation in its native environment. This characteristic contributes to the plant’s resilience and its ability to spread effectively.
Why Aerial Roots Form on Lavender Scallops
The formation of aerial roots on ‘Lavender Scallops’ stems is primarily a natural adaptation, although environmental factors can influence their prominence. As a succulent native to rocky, arid regions, the plant has evolved mechanisms to spread and establish new growth points efficiently. When stems grow long and bend to touch the soil, these aerial roots can quickly anchor the stem and begin absorbing moisture and nutrients, effectively creating new plants.
Environmental conditions can also trigger their development. High humidity encourages aerial roots to form, as they can absorb atmospheric moisture. If the soil is consistently too dry or lacks sufficient nutrients, the plant may produce aerial roots as it searches for alternative sources. These roots also provide additional stability, especially as the plant’s stems grow taller and become prone to leaning or trailing.
Caring for Lavender Scallops with Aerial Roots
When ‘Lavender Scallops’ develop aerial roots, focus on providing optimal growing conditions for overall plant health. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix with 50-70% mineral grit like perlite or coarse sand, to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly only when the topsoil has completely dried, allowing for deep, infrequent watering. Overwatering is a common mistake, while underwatering might prompt the plant to produce more aerial roots in search of moisture.
Provide bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun scorches leaves, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth, which encourages aerial root formation. Aerial roots are natural; if they become unsightly, they can be gently tucked into the soil or trimmed with clean, sharp shears without harming the plant. Pruning is not necessary for the plant’s health, as these roots are a functional part of its growth.
Propagating Lavender Scallops Using Aerial Roots
The presence of aerial roots significantly simplifies the propagation of ‘Lavender Scallops’, making it an easy plant to multiply. These roots indicate that the stem section is already prepared to establish itself in new soil. To propagate, select a healthy stem section with several aerial roots. Using clean, sharp shears, cut the stem just below a node where roots have formed, ensuring the cutting is at least 2 inches long.
Allow the cut end to callus, or dry and form a protective seal, for a day or two to prevent rot. Once callused, place the cutting directly onto well-draining succulent soil, with the aerial roots making contact with the substrate. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not wet, until the cutting establishes new growth. The pre-existing aerial roots expedite the rooting process, leading to successful new plants within a few weeks.