Kalanchoe Daigremontiana

Kalanchoe daigremontiana is also known as mother of thousands.

It has a unique ability to propagate via many forms. First, it is mainly known for its plantlets that grow alongside the leaves. They fall off and root to the ground to create its own plant. If a stem or leaf falls off, that can create its own plant as well. And finally, if the mother plant blooms and fruits, each fruit will create thousands of seeds ready to be sprouted.

Although mother of thousands is typically grown as a houseplant, if you live in an area that does not get below frost, you can grow it outdoors, even in the shade.

Botanical name: Kalanchoe daigremontiana

Other names: Bryophyllum daigremontianum, alligator plant, mother of thousands

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Kalanchoe daigremontiana is a shrubby succulent that can reach 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

Stems tend to either grow upwards or alongside the ground with the ends growing upwards. Some stems branch off.

Shallow roots grow mainly underground, but also above the ground.

The thick and succulent leaves are long and narrow and curve up the edges, forming a cup from the middle. They are primarily green with pink or purple coloration.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana is best known for the small plantlets that grow alongside the leaf margins. These plantlets fall off the plants to propagate.

Tiny pink or purple bell-shaped flowers when in bloom. Followed by fruits containing thousands of seeds.

The main plant will then die, but will have already propagated itself via its seeds, plantlets, and fallen leaves.

Mother of thousands has shallow roots. Performs well in containers and as houseplants.

Can be grown alongside trees and other plants with deep roots that don’t compete with its shallow roots.

Drought tolerant. Can be grown with other plants that do not require regular water such as cacti and agaves.

Keep in container to keep its shrubby growth in check.

Performs well in shade in the Palm Springs region.

Toxic if ingested. Keep from curious small children, pets and livestock. Touching its sap my cause contact dermatitis.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana is native to temperate regions of Madagascar.

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 32 degrees for a short period of time.

Water: Kalanchoe diagremontiana is very drought tolerant. Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs region.

Pests: Kalanchoe daigremontiana is not prone to attracting pests. The most common ones are mealybugs and spider mites.

To remove mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of the infestation using a cotton swab.

To remove spider mites, use horticultural oil for crawlers and insecticidal soap for mites of all stages.

Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.

Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, leaf fall

Signs of too little water: Shriveled leaves, leaf fall

Signs of too much sun: Burning, fading leaves

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, stunted growth

Kalanchoe daigremontiana propagates easily. Take leaves, plantlets from the leaves, or stem cuttings, and plant in moist soil or root in water. You can also plant seeds from its fruits.

How much does Kalanchoe Daigremontiana cost?

At our nursery, Kalanchoe diagremontiana costs $10 for a 1-gallon container and $35 for a 5-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is Kalanchoe Daigremontiana toxic?

Yes, keep from curious small children, pets and livestock. Touching its sap my cause contact dermatitis.

Does Kalanchoe Daigremontiana flower?

Yes, given warm temperatures and dormant winters, Kalanchoe daigremontiana will form small pink or purple flowers. After fruiting, the mother plant will die. Indoors, Kalanchoe daigremontiana do not flower easily.