Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe beharensis

NEMBA: Scrutiny advised

English: Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe, Donkey's Ear, Felt Bush, Feltbush, Velvet Leaf Kalanchoe

Afrikaans: Donkie-oor

Kalanchoe beharensis, commonly known as the Felt Bush or Elephant’s Ear Kalanchoe, is a large succulent shrub native to Madagascar. It is characterised by its triangular, velvety leaves covered in fine hairs, giving them a soft, felt-like texture. The leaves are grey-green to bronze, often with wavy edges, and can grow up to 35 cm long.

While it is popular as an ornamental plant in gardens for its striking appearance and drought tolerance, it is considered an alien invasive species in South Africa. It can spread rapidly through vegetative reproduction, forming dense stands that out-compete native vegetation, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Its ability to thrive in poor soils and resist drought makes it a persistent invader, posing a threat to local biodiversity.

Elephant's Ear Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe beharensis)
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Origins: Madagascar

Overall Appearance: A succulent shrub with a distinctive appearance due to its densely hairy leaves. Reaching up to 3 meters, this one of the few Kalanchoe's that can be considered a tree.

Leaves: Large, triangular-shaped leaves with wavy margins. Covered in dense, velvety brown hairs. Leaves are often concave, giving them a "spoon-shaped" appearance.

Flowers: Small, greenish-yellow flowers arranged in branched clusters in spring and summer.

Fruits: Small, dry capsules containing numerous seeds.

Seeds: Small and easily dispersed by wind and water.

Bark: Woody stems with a grayish-brown bark.

Wood: Woody, but not typically used for timber.

Soil Type: Tolerates well-drained soils.

Aspect: Full sun to partial shade.

Provinces Affected:* While not currently a widespread problem in South Africa, it has the potential to become invasive in certain areas.

Note:

Kalanchoe beharensis is a vigorous grower and can easily escape cultivation.
It can outcompete native plants and disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems.
It is important to be cautious when planting this species and to monitor its growth carefully.