Felt Bush
Kalanchoe beharensis
Beharensis
About this plant
Kalanchoe beharensis, commonly called Felt Bush, is a succulent known for its large, fuzzy, velvety leaves that have a unique felt-like texture. It grows as a shrub with thick stems and can reach a moderate size indoors or outdoors in warm climates. This plant is popular for its interesting foliage and low maintenance needs. It is often used as a decorative houseplant or in succulent gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Kalanchoe
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Madagascar
- Distribution
- Native to Madagascar; cultivated worldwide as a houseplant and in warm climates.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 14–21 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed lightly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Kalanchoe beharensis is a tough succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly and allow soil to dry between waterings. It grows slowly and needs little maintenance.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Offsets
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Large, fuzzy, gray-green leaves with a felt-like texture; small tubular flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; keep away from children and pets to avoid stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Kalanchoe beharensis may cause mild skin irritation in some people due to its sap. Those with sensitive skin should handle it carefully and wash hands after touching the plant. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that causes allergies.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Insufficient light may cause leggy growth. Pests like mealybugs can occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and easy care. Suitable for indoor decoration and succulent gardens.
Notes
Prune occasionally to remove dead leaves and maintain shape. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh soil. Protect from frost and cold drafts.