Kalanchoe daigremontiana , ordinarily known as the alligator plant or female parent of thousands , is an challenging succulent that can grow to be quite impressive in sizing . This singular works has a distinctive show , with a unsubdivided , brownish shank that can either stand erect or urban sprawl along the ground . The stem is thickset and fleshy , store water supply to help the plant survive in arid conditions .
One of the most outstanding characteristic of the alligator plant is its leaves . They are thick and lush , coif in a rosette establishment at the top of the stem . The leaves are a pale green color and have serrated border with lowly teeth . What makes this plant sincerely captivating is that along the edges of each leafage , minor bulbils or plantlet anatomy . These bulbils are essentially miniature versions of the parent plant , complete with stem and the potential to grow into unexampled plants .
As the alligator plant grow , it can reach pinnacle of up to 3 feet ( 1 meter ) . The stem continues to elongate , and Modern leaves are produced at the top . Over fourth dimension , the plant can develop a visually prominent show , with a cluster of rosettes and bulbil cascading down the base . This growth pattern move over rise to the common name “ female parent of thousands , ” as each folio can grow numerous offspring .
When it comes to care for the alligator plant life , it is comparatively low - maintenance . It thrives in hopeful light status , but can tolerate some tone . As a succulent , it is adapted to juiceless environment and opt well - run out dirt . Overwatering should be avoided , as it can lead to root rot . Instead , appropriate the soil to dry out out between waterings and water sparingly , only when the plant read signs of thirst , such as wilting leaves .
In term of propagation , the alligator works is incredibly prolific . The bulbils that constitute along the leaf edge can be gently detach and planted in ground to farm new plants . These bulbils often flatten off course and can take antecedent wherever they land , leading to the plant life ’s ability to spread and colonize an surface area .
In my personal experience with the alligator plant , I have found it to be a fascinating addition to my succulent collection . Its unique growth drug abuse and ability to bring out legion offspring make it a conversation starter . Watching the flora grow and grow over time is really bewitching , as it transforms from a single rosette into a cluster of interconnected plant .
To summarize , the gator plant , or Kalanchoe daigremontiana , can grow to be up to 3 feet tall . Its radical is simple , brownish , and fleshy , while its leaf are thick and succulent , with small bulbils forming along the serrated bound . This succulent is a heavy addition to any garden or indoor compendium , as it is comparatively easy to wish for and has a visually prominent appearance . Its ability to spread through bulbils add an extra level of pursuit to this already captivating plant .
Caroline Bates
