Mother of Millions is a succulent native to Madagascar. The plant’s scientific name is Kalanchoe delagoensis. It gets its common name. Mother of Millions, from the large number of small offsets it produces. These offsets can easily take root and grow into new plants, which is why the Mother of Millions plant is considered invasive in some areas.
It is also known as the Chandelier Plant from its clusters of tubular flowers that resemble a chandelier.
The Mother of Millions plant has thick, fleshy leaves that are green with reddish or purple spots. The leaves are arranged in a rosette shape and can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
The flowers are small and have coral pink and orange colors. They grow in clusters on stalks that emerge from the center of the plant.
They also grow small plantlets on the tips of the leaves that can be confused for flowers.
The Mother of Millions plant is relatively easy to care for and a perfect plant for succulent-beginners.
Mother of Millions is often confused for the similar sounding Mother of Thousands plant – read out the key differences in our Mother Of Thousands And Mother Of Millions: What’s The Difference Between These Two Plants? post.
How Much Sunlight Does A Mother Of Millions Plant Need?
Mother of Millions prefers bright, indirect sunlight, and can also tolerate some direct sunlight for a few hours a day. In its native habitat, it often grows in partially shaded areas such as under the canopies of other plants or trees.
When growing Kalanchoe delagoensis indoors, it’s important to place it near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day. If the plant is placed in a spot with too little light, it may not produce as many plantlets or may become leggy as it grows tall to try and reach more light. However, if the plant is exposed to too much direct sunlight, its leaves may get scorched and turn brown.
How Should You Water A Mother Of Millions Plant?
Kalanchoe delagoensis prefers well-draining soil that is allowed to dry out partially between watering. Here are some general guidelines for watering this plant:
- Water thoroughly: When you water the plant, make sure to water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This helps to flush out any accumulated salts and minerals in the soil.
- Allow soil to dry out: Wait until the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s important to allow the soil to dry out at least partially between watering.
- Avoid getting water on leaves: Try to avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant, as this can lead to rot and fungal diseases. Water directly into the soil around the base of the plant.
- Adjust watering schedule according to the season: In the summer months when temperatures are warmer, the plant may need to be watered more frequently than in the winter when growth slows down.
Overall, it’s better to underwater Kalanchoe delagoensis than to overwater it, as this plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal water for extended periods.
If you notice that the leaves are starting to wilt, it is an indication that they are not receiving enough water. In this case, increase the frequency of your watering schedule until the leaves recover.
Flowering Mother of Millions plant
What Temperature Is Best For Mother Of Millions?
Mother of Millions that prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to frost. It’s ideal temperature range is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It can tolerate higher temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause heat stress and damage the plant.
Avoid frost; this plant is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Provide good air circulation in warm temperatures to prevent the plant from overheating. If indoors, place the plant near a fan or open window.
Kalanchoe delagoensis can adapt to seasonal changes in temperature, but it’s important to avoid sudden changes in temperature that can stress the plant. For example, if you move the plant from indoors to outdoors, gradually expose it to the new environment over several days to prevent shock.
Overall, Kalanchoe delagoensis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures, as long as it is protected from frost and provided with good air circulation in warm temperatures.
What Type Of Soil Does Kalanchoe Delagoensis Need?
In it’s native Madagascar, the Mother of Millions plant is used to dry, infertile soil. It needs a well-draining soil mix. You can use a commercial succulent or cactus soil mix and add additional perlite or coarse sand.
The soil should be loose and airy, allowing for good aeration and drainage.
If indoors, ensure that you plant in a pot with drainage holes to prevent roots from becoming water-logged and root rot occurring.
Fertilizer
Avoid excessive fertilization and feed with a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season.
Pruning Mother of Millions
Mother of millions plants (Kalanchoe daigremontiana) can benefit from occasional pruning, especially if they become too leggy or start to take over their growing space. Pruning can also help promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too top-heavy and tipping over.
When pruning a mother of millions plant, you can trim off any leggy or overgrown stems using sharp, sterile pruning shears. You can also remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems to keep the plant looking healthy and attractive.
Is Mother Of Millions Poisonous?
Mother of Millions and Mother of Thousands plants are considered are considered toxic when ingested. They can cause a variety of toxic effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and irregular heartbeats. In severe cases, even cardiac arrest and death. These plants should be considered toxic to pets and humans.
Keep mother of millions plants out of the reach of children and pets and to avoid handling them without gloves, as contact with the sap or leaves can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction.
What Pest And Diseases Is Mother Of Millions Susceptible To?
Mother of Millions is generally a hearty plant that does not succumb to too many problems. However, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can occasionally be issues. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, treat them with an appropriate pesticide or insecticide.
Root rot is the most common disease issue with this plant; if you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown and falling off, the roots are likely rotting. Cut away any affected roots and reduce the watering frequency to help prevent further damage.
Is Kalanchoe Delagoensis Invasive?
Kalanchoe delagoensis is considered to be an invasive species in some parts of the world. The plant produces small plantlets on its leaves which easily scatter when the wind blows. These small plants are often carried away with water or animal movement, leading to quick growth and spread of this species throughout gardens and local habitats. The plant can spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.
The plant is also known to be poisonous to livestock.
If you are thinking of planting Kalanchoe delagoensis, it is important to research whether it is considered an invasive species in your area.
While Kalanchoe delagoensis can be an invasive species in some parts of the world, it does have many benefits. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is also popular in gardening and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ability to adapt to a variety of conditions.
How Do I Propagate Mother of Millions
If you have a mother of millions plant and would like to propagate it, here are some simple instructions on how to root the plantlets.
First, make sure that the plantlets are big enough to be rooted. If they are still very small, they may not survive the rooting process.
Check the mother plant for a leaf with large, healthy-looking plantlets. Gently remove that leaf from the mother plant with sharp, sterile shears.
Next, fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix. You can use a cactus mix or make your own by mixing together equal parts perlite, sand, and peat moss.
Water the potting mix until it is moist but not soggy. Place the leaf with the plantlets on the surface of the soil and gently press it down so that the plantlets are in contact with the moistened soil.
Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or place it in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. The covered-container will create a mini greenhouse environment that will help to keep the soil moist and encourage rooting.
Check on the leaf periodically to make sure that the soil stays moist. If it begins to dry out, lightly mist it with water.
In 4-6 weeks, the plantlets should have rooted and be ready to transplant into their own pots. Gently remove the leaf from the pot and carefully tease apart the rooted plantlets.
Plant each one in its own small pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Water lightly and place in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
With a little care, your Mother of Millions plantlets will quickly grow into healthy plants.
Is Mother Of Millions A Lucky Plant?
Mother of Millions is considered by some cultures to be a lucky plant. In Feng Shui, the plant is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to a home or business. It is often given as a gift during Chinese New Year or other celebrations.
In other cultures, the plant is believed to have healing properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, coughs, and digestive issues.
While there is no scientific evidence to support these beliefs, the plant is certainly an attractive and easy-to-grow succulent that can bring joy and beauty to a home or garden.
Final Words
The Mother of Millions plant is popular as a houseplant or in outdoor gardens in warm climates. Its easy-care requirements and striking appearance make it a desirable addition to many homes and gardens.
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links and we will earn an affiliate commission if you click the link and make a purchase. This is at zero cost to you.
