Kalanchoe mortagei is a species of Kalanchoe (section Bryophyllum) native to northern Madagascar. It is very similar to K. suarezensis, and both of them used to be mistakenly treated as varieties of a totally different species K. poincarei. K. mortagei differs by having auriculate to peltate leaves, while the leaf base of K. suarezensis is attenuate to truncate.
Kalanchoe mortagei has moderate disease resistance and is fairly sensitive to humidity. High humidity makes it prone to disease, and it is susceptible to root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Kalanchoe mortagei tolerates drought but requires more frequent watering in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Kalanchoe mortagei is best suited to growers with some experience, as it can be challenging to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for people who can devote time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Kalanchoe Mortagei.
Light
Originating from dry areas, Kalanchoe mortagei flourishes in direct sunlight as its natural habitat features intense sunlight with very little shade. It can also endure a bit of shade, evidencing its flexibility in growing conditions.
Temperature
Kalanchoe mortagei is somewhat resistant to high temperatures, but it principally flourishes and develops during colder seasons, moving into a rest phase in the summer. In periods of intense summer heat, providing shade is crucial to avoid damage from extreme sunlight. Water application should be decreased or stopped altogether during the hottest season to avert root decay. Kalanchoe mortagei undergoes robust growth in winter and spring. Provided the temperature remains above a certain low threshold, it will continue to grow at a steady pace.
Fertilizer
For the plant Kalanchoe mortagei, sparing application of fertilizer 1-2 instances annually during the growth period is adequate. Refrain from fertilizing in the winter and summer seasons when the plant is in dormancy. Decrease the amount of fertilizer for the plants that have been repotted and allow a few months to pass after repotting before adding any fertilizer. Fertilizing promotes the plant's robust growth and stimulates flowering.
Pot & Repot
When you are repotting Kalanchoe mortagei, choose a pot that's just a bit bigger than the current one, making sure it has appropriate drainage. Opt for a gritty, well-draining mixture suitable for succulents or cacti. Gently take out the plant from its previous pot, clean off any extra dirt, and transplant it at an equal depth. Refrain from watering the plant for several days, letting any injury to the roots mend. Do the repotting in spring or fall, and then place the pot in a location with plenty of light.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Kalanchoe
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 40 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, Red
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late winter, Early spring, Mid spring
- Native Area
- Madagascar
