How to Grow Mother of Millions

 

M(caps)other of millions, or Kalanchoe delagoensis, also called the chandelier plant, is a succulent native to Madagascar. Mother of millions is so popular as a houseplant or in outdoor gardens in warm climates. This succulent is easy-care requirements, and its striking appearance make it a desirable addition to many homes and gardens. In my step-by-step guide, you will help you to learn how to grow a Mother of millions and with good care you will have your own endless supply of baby succulents, as this sensational succulent plant, is so famous for its ability to produce hundreds of plantlets each year.

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What Is Mother of Millions?

Kalanchoe delagoensis, often called "mother of millions" and chandelier plant, is a succulent plant from the Crassulaceae family. The Crassulaceae, also known as the stonecrop family or the orpine family, are a diverse family of dicotyledon flowering plants characterized by succulent leaves and a unique form of photosynthesis. Kalanchoe delagoensis can grow to a maximum height of 3 feet (90 cm). The plant will produce several long, fleshy stems that grow upright and develop tubular leaves displayed along the length of the main stem.

Mother of millions leaves are usually light green, often with purple accents, and can grow to be up to 5 inches (13 cm) long.

Mother of Millions's Scientific Name

Bryophyllum Delagoensis

Bryophyllum Delagoensis. It is derived from the Greek words Bryophyllum meaning “sprout”, and Phyllon, meaning “leaf”. 

Mother of Millions Origin

 Kalanchoe delagoensis is originated from Madagascar, and Africa.

Does Mother of Millions Flower?

The answer is Yes!  Mother of millions plant will start blooming in winter, and in the right conditions, it can flower for up to six months. Kalanchoe delagoensis normally blooms during the winter and can last up to 6 months. The ultimate temperature to make it bloom is 60 Fahrenheit. The plant produces clusters of orange to reddish tubular flowers in winter. Mother of millions nickname “chandelier plant” comes from the way the trumpet-shaped flowers grow in a circular cluster on top of tall stalks at the end of the stems.

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Is Mother of Millions Toxic?

Mother of Millions is toxic to animals, and it is best to keep this plant out of reach of pets. This is because the stems and leaves contain bufadienolide cardiac glycosides, which will affect the cardiovascular, neurologic, and gastrointestinal systems.

How to Grow Mother of Millions

Mother of Millions Plant Care Guide

Mother of Millions is hardy and adaptable, which makes it a very low-maintenance plant. Compared to the harsh growing conditions in Madagascar, you should provide it with the right environment it requires. By following these tips, you will ensure you know exactly how to keep yours thriving! 

Light Requirements

Mother of Millions grows best in bright indirect light. This plant can also grow in partial shade. Although it can survive in lower light, it will struggle to thrive and will develop thin, leggy stems as it searches for more sun, a process called etiolation. To keep your Mother of Millions growing well, make sure that the plant receives at least four hours of bright indirect light each day. The ideal temperature range for growing Mother of Millions is between 60 F and 85 F (15 C to 29 C) but the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 45 F (7 C).

Soil

Mother of millions are not picky about soil, natively these plants are found growing in poor and infertile places. But ideally, they’ll do best in a loose, sandy, well-draining soil. You can use a commercial mix for succulent

Water Requirements

Mother of Millions has low watering requirements. Like all succulent plants, it has fleshy leaves that retain water, which gives it some tolerance to drought. The plant requires water in moderation and should only be watered once the soil is dry. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, reduce the amount of water and allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. This will help prevent root rot and keep your mother of millions healthy.

Fertilizer

Mother of millions plant is a very light feeder, so it doesn’t typically need fertilizer applications. When you repot the plant, you don’t need to provide it with extra nutrients, use only water. But if you had the plant growing in the same soil for another year, a light nutrient boost will be good for the succulent. You can apply a succulent fertilizer solution once a month, diluted to half strength.

The Mother of Millions plant will only need fertilizer applications throughout the growing season, from spring until the end of summer. 

In winter, don't add fertilizer completely as this will burn your plant’s roots or result in leggy growth, and you can even kill it!!!

Pruning

Prune back any leggy or overgrown stems. Mother of Millions plant can become quite large over time, so regular pruning is necessary to keep it looking its best. Use a sharp, clean shears to trim back any stems that are longer than you desire.

You can keep the cuttings and use them for propagation. In a few weeks, the plant will start new growth.

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Pests and Diseases

Watch regularly for signs of pests or disease and treat accordingly. Mother of Millions is generally a hearty plant that does not succumb too many problems. Spider mites, scale insects and mealybugs can occasionally be issues. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, treat them with an appropriate pesticide or insecticide. I found that Root rot is the most common disease issue with Mother of Millions plant. Reduce the watering frequency to help prevent further damage. Only water when the soil has dried out partially. Avoid frequent shallow watering. Like all other succulents, Mother of Thousands love to dry out completely between watering.

Is Mother of Millions Invasive?

Mother of Millions is considered to be an invasive plant in many parts of the world. This is because the plant can spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.

Mother of Millions Propagation

There are many ways of propagation mother of millions

Propagation from seeds

Seeds can be collected for sowing, but they are difficult to germinate!

Propagation from Stem Cuttings

It involves removing a stem from the parent plant and planting it independently. 

Propagation from Leaf Cuttings

You will only need a leaf to create a new plant.

Propagation From Plantlets

The mother of millions multiplies via the small plantlets at the edges of leaves. Such little plantlets detach from the plant, take root elsewhere and start growing on their own. This sensational succulent plant, is so famous for its ability to produce hundreds of plantlets each year!

Watch How to Propagate Mother of Millions From Plantlets Video

Mother of millions plant is resistant to most pests and diseases. That's why this impressive plant makes it a popular choice among succulent beginners and pros alike. So, if you’re looking for an ever-lasting supply of succulent plants, Mother of millions plant is the perfect choice.

Watch "Transplanting Mother of Millions Succulent New Plants" Video

 If you do choose to grow this beautiful succulent plant, you will be able to enjoy its unique appearance and by following my simple tips, you can keep your Mother of Millions plant looking healthy and beautiful for many years to come!

🛒  Mother of Millions Succulent House Plant, 5 plantlets 1cm 🛒 

Want to read:

How to Propagate Mother of Millions from Plantlets

Transplanting Mother of Millions Young Plants

🛒  Mother of millions plant Live succulent Plants 

Happy Gardening

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