Big Leaf Succulent: A Guide to Cultivating and Caring for Your Plant

Oleh Ramon Durgan May 16, 2023 Post a Comment

Succulents have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They are easy to care for, come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and add a unique touch to any home decor. One of the most sought-after succulents is the big leaf succulent, which is known for its large, fleshy leaves and striking appearance. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about cultivating and caring for your big leaf succulent.

The big leaf succulent, also known as Kalanchoe beharensis, is a native of Madagascar. It is a member of the Kalanchoe family, which includes over 100 species of succulents. The big leaf succulent is known for its large, velvety leaves that are covered in tiny hairs, giving them a fuzzy texture. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, making it one of the larger succulent species.

Big leaf succulents are popular for their unique appearance, but they also have practical benefits. They are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering, making them perfect for busy people or those who forget to water their plants. They are also low maintenance and can be grown indoors or outdoors.

Sunlight Requirements

Like most succulents, big leaf succulents prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause sunburn and damage the leaves. If you notice your plant's leaves turning brown, move it to a shadier spot. On the other hand, if the leaves are stretching towards the light, it may be an indication that it needs more sunlight.

Soil Requirements

Big leaf succulents prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a pre-made cactus soil mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of sand, perlite, and potting soil. It's important to ensure the soil is well-draining as succulents are susceptible to root rot if they sit in water for too long.

Watering Requirements

As mentioned earlier, big leaf succulents are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. It's best to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. This can range from once a week to once every few weeks, depending on the humidity levels in your home and the size of your plant. It's always better to underwater than overwater your succulent.

Temperature Requirements

Big leaf succulents prefer warm temperatures between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate cooler temperatures, but it's best to protect them from frost. If you live in a colder climate, it's recommended to grow your big leaf succulent indoors.

Propagation

One of the benefits of succulents is that they are easy to propagate. Big leaf succulents can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. Simply cut a 3-4 inch stem and remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet and place it in a bright spot with indirect sunlight.

Leaf cuttings are taken in a similar way. Gently remove a leaf from the plant and allow it to dry for a few days. Plant the leaf in well-draining soil and mist it lightly with water. After a few weeks, roots and a new plant will begin to form.

Fertilizing

Big leaf succulents do not require frequent fertilizing, but you can fertilize them once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and winter).

Pests and Diseases

Big leaf succulents are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, inspect your plant regularly and isolate it from other plants if you notice any signs of pests. You can also use a mild soap solution or neem oil to treat infestations.

Root rot is a common problem with succulents, especially if they are overwatered or planted in soil that doesn't drain well. To prevent root rot, ensure that your big leaf succulent is planted in well-draining soil and allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

Pruning

Pruning isn't necessary for big leaf succulents, but you can trim off any dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. You can also shape your plant by trimming it into a bushy shape.

Repotting

Big leaf succulents don't require frequent repotting, but they may need to be repotted every few years as they outgrow their container. When repotting, choose a container that is slightly larger than the current one and use well-draining soil. Gently loosen the roots and remove any dead or rotting ones before planting it in the new container.

Toxicity

Like most succulents, big leaf succulents are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

In conclusion, big leaf succulents are a unique and low-maintenance addition to any home decor. With proper care, they can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Remember to provide them with bright, indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, minimal watering, and protect them from frost. Propagation is easy, and they are generally pest-resistant. If you're looking for a statement piece that requires minimal effort, consider adding a big leaf succulent to your collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I water my big leaf succulent?

Big leaf succulents are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. It's best to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. This can range from once a week to once every few weeks, depending on the humidity levels in your home and the size of your plant.

2. Can big leaf succulents tolerate direct sunlight?

Big leaf succulents prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause sunburn and damage the leaves. If you notice your plant's leaves turning brown, move it to a shadier spot.

3. How do I propagate my big leaf succulent?

Big leaf succulents can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. Simply cut a 3-4 inch stem and remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet and place it in a bright spot with indirect sunlight.

4. What kind of soil does my big leaf succulent need?

Big leaf succulents prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a pre-made cactus soil mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of sand, perlite, and potting soil.

5. How do I know if my big leaf succulent needs more sunlight?

If the leaves are stretching towards the light, it may be an indication that it needs more sunlight. On the other hand, if the leaves are turning brown, it may be getting too much direct sunlight.

6. How do I fertilize my big leaf succulent?

7. Can I grow my big leaf succulent outdoors?

Yes, big leaf succulents can be grown outdoors in warm climates. They prefer temperatures between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit and well-draining soil.

8. What kind of pests and diseases can affect my big leaf succulent?

Big leaf succulents are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, inspect your plant regularly and isolate it from other plants if you notice any signs of pests. Root rot is a common problem with succulents, especially if they are overwatered or planted in soil that doesn't drain well.

9. Can I shape my big leaf succulent?

Yes, you can trim off any dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. You can also shape your plant by trimming it into a bushy shape.

10. Is my big leaf succulent toxic?