Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri — Upright, compact, freely branching

Overview

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri is a upright, compact, freely branching cactus succulent in the genus Kalanchoe, part of the Crassulaceae family, with dark green foliage. Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and cactus or succulent mix soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include indoor container plant and patio plant in summer.

About

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri is a species of flowering plant in the family Crassulaceae. They are called "palm beachbells" or "donkey ear plants" as they have leaves resembling the shape of a donkey's ear. K. gastonis-bonnieri have thick green leaves more or less with brownish spots and often form plantlets at leaf tips. It may be confused with K. suarezensis and K. mortagei, whose leaves have no spots. Grow it in full sun and well-drained and cactus or succulent mix soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). It works well for indoor container plant and patio plant in summer. It tolerates neutral to slightly acidic soils, low conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Kalanchoe

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Well-drained, cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic
Soil moisture: Low
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered from strong winds
UK hardiness: H1b

Plant details

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
Habit: Upright, compact, freely branching
Foliage: Dark green
Suggested uses: Indoor container plant, patio plant in summer

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri

Propagation: Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, offsets
Pest resistance: Moderate
Disease resistance: Moderate

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri?

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri prefers full sun. It suits sheltered from strong winds positions.

What soil does Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri need?

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri grows best in well-drained and cactus or succulent mix soil. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays low.

Is Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri hardy in the UK?

Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.

How do I propagate Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri?

Leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, offsets.

More in the Kalanchoe genus

Browse all Kalanchoe →