About
Kalanchoe beharensis, the feltbush, is a bushy, succulent, evergreen perennial from Madagascar producing long-stalked, triangular leaves that are concave and warm-brown above and grey-hairy beneath. Small, urn-shaped, greenish-yellow flowers are borne in panicles in late winter. A dramatic and architectural succulent for a frost-free greenhouse or warm conservatory.
About the genus
Kalanchoe are annuals, biennials, perennials, shrubs and small trees with succulent, simple or pinnately lobed foliage and tubular or bell-shaped flowers with four lobes. One of the most diverse succulent genera, ranging from compact houseplants to large, impressive shrubs. Easy to grow in sunny, frost-free conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toMadagascar
Care notes
CultivationGrow indoors in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added extra grit in bright filtered light. Water moderately when in growth, sparingly when dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times in the growing season
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs and vine weevil
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free