Scientific Name
Kalanchoe tetraphylla H.Perrier
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Etymology
The specific epithet "tetraphylla" (pronounced "tet-ruh-FIL-uh") means "having four leaves; four-leaved" and refers to the arrangement and the number of the leaves. However, the specific epithet can be misleading, as this species rarely follows the "rule of four" and often produces more paired leaves instead.
Origin
Kalanchoe tetraphylla is native to Madagascar. It occurs in rocky places at elevations between 3,280 and 6,560 feet (1,000 and 2,000 m).
Description
Kalanchoe tetraphylla is a succulent plant with an upright, woody stem bearing a terminal rosette of short, broad, reddish or green leaves with serrated margins. The stem is usually short but can reach 5 feet (1.5 m) in height. The leaves are densely glandular-hairy when young, becoming smooth with age, and can measure up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and nearly as wide.
The bell-shaped flowers have green-to-redish sepals and white-yellow-to-yellow-green petals streaked with purple, all clothed in white glandular hairs. They appear in dense clusters on hairy stalks from within the leaves, usually in fall. The flower stalks can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall.
This rare species is closely related to Kalanchoe synsepala, and the two are the only known Kalanchoe species that typically lack terminal inflorescences, with lateral inflorescences arising in the axils of the leaves.
Kalanchoe tetraphylla has been confused in the literature with Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.
How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe tetraphylla
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 through winter, when growth is most active. Reduce watering during the hottest summer months, when the 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 when handling, as the leaves are somewhat brittle and can snap easily. Clay pots work exceptionally well for planting Kalanchoes. Ensure pots can drain well and saucers can empty easily.
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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