Kalanchoe - Houghtonii Monstrosa aka Shrek's Ears
Kalanchoe 'Shrek's Ears', botanically known as Kalanchoe × houghtonii 'Monstrosa', is a fascinating and whimsical succulent celebrated for its unique, tubular leaves that resemble the ears of the popular animated character, Shrek. This relatively easy-to-grow plant adds a touch of quirky charm to any succulent collection with its unusual foliage and interesting growth habit.
Key Features of Kalanchoe 'Shrek's Ears'
Tubular Leaves: The most distinctive feature is its cylindrical, trumpet-shaped leaves that are typically lime green with reddish tips.
Waxy Coating: The leaves often have a slightly waxy coating.
Upright Growth Habit: Grows with upright, branching stems.
Production of Plantlets: Readily produces tiny plantlets (kalanchoe "babies") along the leaf margins, a characteristic inherited from one of its parent plants, Kalanchoe daigremontiana.
Relatively Small to Medium Size: Typically reaches a modest size, suitable for container gardening.
Pendant Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of pendant, bell-shaped flowers, usually in shades of pink or orange.
Care for Your Kalanchoe 'Shrek's Ears'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct sun, intense afternoon sun may scorch the leaves.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Kalanchoe 'Shrek's Ears'
Removing Spent Flower Stalks: Once flowers fade, remove the spent flower stalks.
Controlling Plantlets: The plantlets produced along the leaf margins can readily root. If you don't want them spreading, gently remove them.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with drainage holes. Spring is usually the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer).
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Plantlets: The easiest method. Gently remove the small plantlets from the leaf margins and plant them in well-draining soil. They root readily.
Stem Cuttings: Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, propagation from the tubular leaves can be slower and less reliable than using plantlets or stem cuttings. Allow the cut end to callus before placing it on well-draining soil.
Kalanchoe 'Shrek's Ears' is a delightful and easy-to-grow succulent prized for its unique, tubular foliage and its fascinating ability to produce plantlets. Its quirky appearance adds a playful touch to any indoor or outdoor succulent garden.
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.
