Contents
Description
Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri, also known as Donkey Ears or Life Plant, is a popular succulent plant native to Madagascar. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is known for its fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves and stunning blooms. The plant is low maintenance and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is a perfect addition to any garden or home decor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
Appearance
The Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri plant is a beautiful succulent with fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The leaves are gray-green in color and have a velvety texture. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that bloom in clusters on long stalks. The flowers are usually orange-red in color, but can also be yellow, pink, or white. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Water: Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as cactus or succulent mix.
Sunlight: The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent pests, keep the plant clean and dry, and regularly inspect it for signs of infestation. Diseases that can affect the plant include root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Habitat
Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri is native to Madagascar, where it grows in rocky, arid regions. It is well adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri?
A: Use well-draining soil, such as cactus or succulent mix.
Q: What hardiness zones can Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri be grown in?
A: The plant can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Kalanchoe Tomentosa
- Kalanchoe Pinnata
- Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
- Kalanchoe Luciae
References
- “Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri.” The Spruce. The Spruce, 2021. Web. 18 May 2021.
- “Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri.” World of Succulents. World of Succulents, 2021. Web. 18 May 2021.
- “Kalanchoe Gastonis-Bonnieri.” Plant Care Today. Plant Care Today, 2021. Web. 18 May 2021.
