Kalanchoe delagoensis aka Chandelier Plant
Taxonomy
Kalanchoe delagoensis, formerly known as Bryophyllum delagoense, is a fascinating succulent plant native to Madagascar. Commonly called mother of millions or chandelier plant, it is an upright perennial succulent that can reach up to 1m in height. The plant features almost cylindrical, grey-green leaves that are spotted with red-brown and produce plantlets at the tips. It blooms in late winter and early spring, displaying panicles of tubular or bell-shaped flowers in purple-grey to pale orange-yellow hues. One of the most intriguing aspects of Kalanchoe delagoensis is its unique method of reproduction. Along with flowering and fruiting, it also produces small plantlets around the outer edge of its leaves. Once these plantlets mature, the mother plant drops them, allowing them to take root in the soil and propagate. This characteristic makes it incredibly easy to propagate, but it has also led to its invasive status in some parts of the world. As a result, it is recommended to grow Kalanchoe delagoensis indoors outside of its native Madagascar. 🪴
Common names
Chandelier Plant, Mother Of Millions, Leaf EverlastingHow to care for Chandelier Plant
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Chandelier Plant due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Chandelier Plant does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
To ensure the health of your Chandelier Plant, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
Lighting
Chandelier Plant thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Leaf Everlasting.
Toxicity
Chandelier Plant is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
Chandelier Plant prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Chandelier Plant is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Chandelier Plant grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Chandelier Plant’s native range is Madagascar and Tropical Africa.
Flower
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Chandelier Plant blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Kalanchoe Genus
Kalanchoe humilis Desert Surprise
Kalanchoe densiflora Miracle Plant
Kalanchoe kewensis
Kalanchoe pinnata Cathedral Bells
Kalanchoe sexangularis
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Flaming Katy
Kalanchoe millotii Donkey Tears
Kalanchoe rhombopilosa Pies From Heaven
Kalanchoe hildebrandtii Silver Spoons
