Scientific Name
Kalanchoe laetivirens Descoings
Common Name(s)
Mother of Thousands, Mother of Millions
Synonym(s)
Bryophyllum crenodaigremontianum, Bryophyllum crenato-daigremontianum, Bryophyllum laetivirens, Kalanchoe crenato-daigremontiana, Kalanchoe daigremontiana 'Green Form', Kalanchoe × laetivirens
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Etymology
The specific epithet "laetivirens" (pronounced "lay-tee-VY-rens") means "vivid green" and refers to the coloration of the leaves of this species.
Origin
Kalanchoe laetivirens is native to Madagascar. Some authors suggest that it is a natural hybrid resulting from a cross between Kalanchoe daigremontiana and Kalanchoe laxiflora, but no experimental evidence has been provided to support this claim.
Description
Kalanchoe laetivirens is an unusual succulent that has a simple stem and large, green to bluish-green leaves, each with baby plantlets along the edges, which give them a distinctive appearance. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The leaves are oblong to elliptic, measuring up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length and 2.8 inches (7 cm) in width.
The flowers are greenish-white or greenish-yellow, tinged with pink to purplish-pink. They are bell-shaped and appear in many-flowered, corymbose cymes that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall in early spring.
Kalanchoe laetivirens is similar to Kalanchoe daigremontiana but differs in its growth habit and the color and form of the leaves.
How to Grow and Care
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Kalanchoe care is minimal, but be cautious about light levels. Intense sunlight can burn the tips of the leaves. Place pots in partial-sun to light-shade areas when growing Kalanchoes.
The flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful and long-lasting flowers. They prefer bright, sunny locations, especially in the growing season. Water moderately from fall to winter when the growth is most active. Reduce watering during the hottest summer months, when plants are mostly dormant, and during winter, when growth slows significantly. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. An ordinary potting soil mix is fine. Feed bi-weekly during the growing season with a liquid fertilizer, or use slow-release pellets.
These small plants require repotting every few years. When repotting, take extra care in handling, as the leaves are somewhat brittle and can snap easily. Clay pots work exceptionally well for planting Kalanchoes. Ensure pots drain well and their saucers can be easily emptied.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.
Links
- Back to genus Kalanchoe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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