Mother of Thousands (Kalanchoe daigremontiana): Care & Propagation Guide

Mother of Thousands earns its name from the countless tiny plantlets that form along the edges of its large, blue-green leaves. These baby plants drop off and root wherever they land—making this succulent both fascinating and potentially prolific. Indoors, it's easily contained, though you may find volunteers in neighboring pots!

This single-stemmed plant grows up to 2.5 feet tall with narrow, pointed leaves up to 6 inches long. A member of the diverse Crassulaceae family (cousins include Flaming Katy and Jade Plant), it's easy to grow but rarely flowers indoors.

Light & Soil Preferences

Bright light to full sun. It enjoys some direct morning sun. Move outdoors gradually in summer to avoid leaf scorch, but bring it in before temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C)—no frost tolerance.

Hates soggy soil. Use a terra cotta pot with drainage holes and fast-draining cactus mix.

Repotting

Repot in spring only when rootbound—move to a container just slightly larger.

Mother of Thousands Care Summary

• Origin: Madagascar
• Height: Up to 2.5 ft (75 cm)
• Light: Bright light to full sun
• Water: Water thoroughly; let top 2 inches dry between waterings; reduce in winter but don't let soil dry completely
• Humidity: Average room humidity
• Temperature: 60–75°F (16–24°C); tolerates heat, not frost
• Soil: Cactus potting mix
• Fertilizer: Quarterly with half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer
• Propagation: Effortless—plantlets fall off and root themselves; or remove and pot in barely moist cactus mix (spring/summer best)