Kalanchoe
tormentosa cv Super Duper
A very unusual and gorgeous cultivar of the ever
popular tormentosa. This plant originated in South Africa to the best of my
knowledge. It has the typical habit of the species but is larger in all its
parts. The leaves are up to 12 cms long by 3 cms wide with long white hair and
orange- brown tips. The plant grows up to 200 cms then the stem is terminated
by the inflorescence which is developing this winter (December 2001) for the
first time.
Cultivation is difficult as the plant looses its roots if too dry and stem rot
sets in if too wet.
Propagation is easy both stems and leaves root readily. Growth is vigorous at
first as shown in the two 5 cm pots in the photo then care with watering is
necessary. Use a well drained soil.
Watering is needed in the winter to keep the roots active and a minimum temperature
of 7°C plus absolute maximum light at all times seems to be the requirement
for success. To be certain this year, I have put the parent plant in my propagator
which maintains a minimum of 15°C.
