Contents
Description
Kalanchoe Crenata, also known as the “Bears Paw” or “Elephant’s Ear”, is a succulent plant native to Madagascar. This plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or indoor setting. The plant has thick, fleshy leaves that are green with a light purple tint. The leaves are shaped like a bear’s paw, which is where the plant gets its common name. The flowers of the Kalanchoe Crenata are small and pink, blooming in the winter and spring months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
Appearance
Kalanchoe Crenata has thick, fleshy leaves that are green with a light purple tint. The leaves are shaped like a bear’s paw, which is where the plant gets its common name. The plant has a compact growth habit, growing up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The flowers of the Kalanchoe Crenata are small and pink, blooming in the winter and spring months.
Care Guide
To care for your Kalanchoe Crenata, follow these guidelines:Water: Water your plant once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the winter. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Use well-draining soil for your Kalanchoe Crenata, as it prefers soil that is not too moist.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Kalanchoe Crenata is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalanchoe Crenata is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot, which can be prevented by using well-draining soil and not overwatering.
Habitat
Kalanchoe Crenata is native to Madagascar, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Kalanchoe Crenata?
A: Water your plant once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the winter. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.Q: What kind of soil does Kalanchoe Crenata prefer?
A: Use well-draining soil for your Kalanchoe Crenata, as it prefers soil that is not too moist.Q: What kind of sunlight does Kalanchoe Crenata prefer?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Kalanchoe Crenata?
A: Kalanchoe Crenata is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. The plant is also prone to root rot.
Related Plants
– Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana- Kalanchoe Pinnata- Kalanchoe Tomentosa- Kalanchoe Fedtschenkoi
References
– “Kalanchoe Crenata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287287&isprofile=0&.- “Kalanchoe Crenata.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/kalanchoe/growing-kalanchoe-plants.htm.
