Kalanchoe daigremontiana

Mother of Thousands

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Mother of ThousandsDevil's BackboneAlligator PlantMexican Hat Plant

Context

nativeRegion

Madagascar (tropical and subtropical zones).

usdaZones

9-11 (grown as a houseplant in cooler regions).

companionPlants

Echeveria, Sedum, Aloe vera, Crassula ovata

culturalUses

Ornamental houseplant appreciated for its curious plantlet propagation and unique leaf margins; caution due to toxicity.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning.

WateringAllow soil to dry out between waterings; water sparingly; avoid letting the roots sit in moisture.

SoilWell-draining cactus or succulent soil mix.

FertilizerFeed with a diluted balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

HumidityLow to average household humidity is sufficient.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F); protect from frost.

HabitUpright, succulent perennial with thick, green leaves bearing plantlets along margins.

Mature Size30-120 cm (12-47 inches) tall.

Growth RateFast-growing, especially under optimal conditions.

BloomingProduces small, tubular, pink to grayish flowers on tall stalks, usually in late winter or early spring.

DormancyMay exhibit reduced growth in winter under low light and cooler temperatures.

MethodsLeaf plantlets (viviparously produced along leaf margins), Stem cuttings, Seeds

DifficultyVery easy (especially by plantlets).

Best SeasonSpring to early summer.

PruningRemove spent flower stalks and any unwanted plantlets or leggy growth.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound; use fresh, well-draining soil.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic to pets (cats and dogs) and humans if ingested due to bufadienolides.

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