Kalanchoe daigremontiana X delagoensis

Kalanchoe daigremontiana X delagoensis (IN PROGRESS, to BE FILLED)

Family: Crassulaceae
Common Name: mother of millions hybrid
Origin: Kalanchoe beharensis originates from xeriscape forests in southwestern Madagascar.
Description: The felt bush is a tree-like succulent that possesses a woody trunk, and can grow as tall as 12 feet. Leaves are very distinctive, olive-green and curled, with a dense matt of felt-like hairs across the surface. When mature, the top of leaves will become rust colored, while the bottom will turn silver or gray. Additionally, from spring to summer a panicle may form, leading to numerous reddish-orange or yellow-green flowers.

Interesting Features:
- The brown hairs of K. beharensis give the leaves a unique velvety or felt-like texture, and have developed in order to protect the species from drought.
Uses: Within its natural habitat, the felt bush is used to relieve muscle pain and rheumatism.
- Additionally, K. beharensis contains anticancer properties – essential oils created from the felt bush may be a possible treatment for cancer, especially when drug resistant.

Cultivation and Care:

Watering: Moderate
- Provide ample irrigation in summer, thoroughly soaking whenever the soil is dry.
- During spring and autumn, water moderately, but only occasionally in the winter, to prevent the plant from shriveling.
Soil: Plant the felt bush in well-draining, nutrient-poor soil supplemented with an equal ratio of loam and sand.
- Pumice, lava, or pebbles may be added to improve drainage, if necessary, and a pH should be maintained between 6.1 and 7.8.
Lighting: Kalanchoe beharensis prefers full sun during the warmer seasons, in order to encourage the best growth.
- During the dormant winter months, however, partial shade is tolerated.
Propagation: The felt bush can be propagated from basal offsets, stem cuttings, and through seed, although some cultivated plants may be sterile.
- For cuttings, remove leaves during spring or summer, and allow to fully dry before planting under indirect light.
Cold Tolerance: 25°F, USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Special Accommodations: Although K. beharensis can occasionally tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F, plants prefer warmth and will begin to show signs of stress if living in environments colder than 55°F.
- Never expose to frost, as this can lead to plant death, and be vigilant of insect pests.
- Every few years, repotting may be necessary, but should be done carefully, to avoid snapping the brittle leaves.

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