Velvet Leaf Kalanchoe beharensis

Names

• Family

  Crassulaceae

• Synonyms

  Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe, Velvet Leaf, Felt Bush, Velvet Elephant Ear

• Common names

  Kalanchoe beharensis

Toxicity

• To humans

  Elephant's Ear (Kalanchoe beharensis) is considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, ingestion of this plant may still cause mild symptoms. The most common symptoms if ingested may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Generally, the consequences are not severe, but it is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant.

• To pets

  Elephant's Ear (Kalanchoe beharensis) is toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and in rare cases, an abnormal heart rhythm. The toxic compounds in the plant are called bufadienolides, which are cardiac glycoside toxins that can interfere with the electrolyte balance within the heart muscle. It is important to keep this plant out of reach of pets and seek veterinary care if any part of the plant has been ingested.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Olive-green

• Flower color

  Yellow-green

• Height

  3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)

• Spread

  2-4 feet (0.61-1.22 meters)

• Plant type

  Succulent

• Hardiness zones

  9

• Native area

  Madagascar

General Benefits

• Easy to Care For: Kalanchoe beharensis, commonly known as Velvet Leaf, is low-maintenance and can thrive with minimal attention, making it ideal for busy or novice gardeners.
• Drought Tolerant: Its succulent leaves allow it to store water, enabling it to withstand periods of drought, which is beneficial in arid climates or for water-wise gardening.
• Ornamental Appeal: With its distinctive felted leaves and unique growth habit, Velvet Leaf is an eye-catching plant that adds visual interest to any collection or landscape.
• Textural Contrast: The fuzzy leaves offer a unique texture that contrasts well with other plants, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a garden or indoor plant arrangement.
• Pest Resistant: Velvet Leaf is relatively resistant to pests, which reduces the need for chemical pesticides, contributing to a more organic gardening approach.
• Long-Lived: As a slow-growing plant, Velvet Leaf has a lengthy lifespan which means it can be enjoyed for many years with proper care.
• Propagation Ease: It can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings or offsets, making it simple to expand your collection or share with friends.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Kalanchoe beharensis, commonly known as Velvet Leaf, can be used as a natural insect repellent due to certain compounds in its leaves that are unappealing to bugs.
• Due to its unique and striking appearance, Velvet Leaf is often used in themed gardens to create a visual texture contrast alongside other plants.
• The plant is sometimes integrated into education programs at botanical gardens to teach about succulent plant care and xeriscaping principles.
• Velvet Leaf's thick, fleshy leaves can be used in floral arrangements to add an exotic and durable greenery element that lasts longer than traditional leaves.
• In areas prone to erosion, Velvet Leaf can stabilize soil with its extensive root system while requiring minimal water.
• Its textural leaves can be used for artistic purposes, like leaf-casting, to create unique patterns and designs in cast concrete or plaster works.
• Some people practice leaf-cutting art on Velvet Leaf's large foliage, carving intricate designs directly onto the surface of its leaves.
• As an ornamental feature, Velvet Leaf can be grown in hanging baskets where its triangular leaves can cascade creating an aesthetic display.
• In regions where the climate is suitable, Velvet Leaf can sometimes be used as a living privacy screen due to its dense and shrubby growth habit.
• Velvet Leaf can function as a natural acoustic barrier when planted densely, as its thick leaves can absorb sound to reduce noise pollution in urban gardens.

Feng Shui

The Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Persistence and Renewal: Kalanchoe beharensis, commonly known as Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe, often symbolizes persistence and renewal due to its ability to withstand periods of neglect and still bloom annually with the proper care.
• Endurance and Longevity: This plant's succulent nature and its capacity to store water in its leaves allow it to survive in harsh conditions, making it a symbol of endurance and longevity.
• Love and Devotion: In some cultures, giving a Kalanchoe beharensis as a gift can be seen as a gesture of love and devotion, as the plant's long-lasting blooms reflect these enduring emotions.