Kalanchoe beharensis Fang - Felt plant

Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang' is a succulent shrubby plant with unique foliage. Its large, thick and fleshy, triangular leaves are covered in a velvety down ranging from silvery green to golden brown. The distinctive feature of this cultivar lies in the protuberances, or "fangs", located on the underside of the leaves. This plant will add character to your interior, thanks to its upright habit and atypical foliage.

Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang' belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a cultivar of Kalanchoe beharensis, or Kalanchoe van-tieghemii, a species native to the arid regions of southern Madagascar, particularly the Behara region. Its natural habitat is characterised by poor, well-drained soils and a hot climate with scarce rainfall. This cultivar was selected for its morphological peculiarities, specifically the unusual outgrowths on the underside of the leaves. In its natural habitat, Kalanchoe beharensis can reach 2 to 3 metres in height, but when grown indoors, the cultivar 'Fang' remains more compact: the plant generally does not exceed 1 metre in height and 60 cm in spread. It has an upright habit, with thick, succulent branches that store water to withstand drought. Its evergreen, opposite and decussate leaves are thick, fleshy and covered in a silvery to golden brown down that protects them from excessive evaporation. They measure between 10 and 20 cm long, have a triangular to ovate shape, with wavy and irregularly toothed edges. Their underside is covered with rigid conical protuberances, resembling fangs. The flowering of 'Fang' is rare indoors, but under optimal conditions, the plant may produce a flower spike bearing small, pendulous tubular, yellow to orange flowers, sometimes streaked with red, clustered in terminal inflorescences. This flowering occurs mainly in late winter or early spring.

To cultivate Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang', choose a very bright position, with at least a few hours of direct sunlight per day, while avoiding the scorching afternoon rays in summer. A very well-draining substrate is essential: a mix of cactus compost with sand, perlite or pumice is ideal. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, drastically reduce watering to avoid the risk of root rot.

This Kalanchoe pairs easily with other succulent plants such as Aloe brevifolia or Echeveria agavoides. It can also be paired with columnar cacti like Cereus peruvianus, creating a contrast between the velvety textures of its leaves and the thorns of the cacti. In pots, an unglazed terracotta container is recommended to improve evaporation and prevent excess moisture.