The Kalanchoe beharensis 'Oak Leaf' is a captivating succulent distinguished by its thick, velvety leaves that are uniquely lobed and often feature serrated edges, resembling miniature oak leaves. These soft, fuzzy leaves typically display a beautiful blend of silvery-grey to pale green hues, often accented with rich chocolate or bronze tones along the margins, creating a visually appealing and texturally interesting small, shrubby plant.
 
Appearance:
Oak-Shaped Leaves: The most striking feature of this cultivar is its thick, fleshy leaves that are distinctly lobed and often have serrated edges, giving them a resemblance to miniature oak leaves. This unique leaf shape sets it apart from other Kalanchoe varieties.  
Velvety Texture: The leaves are covered in a dense layer of fine, silvery-grey to brownish fuzz, giving them a soft, velvety feel to the touch. This texture adds significant tactile appeal.  
Coloration: The leaves typically exhibit a blend of pale green to grayish-silver hues, often with the edges deepening into rich chocolate or bronze tones, especially when exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures.
Growth Habit: 'Oak Leaf' is a densely branched, shrubby succulent that tends to be more compact than the standard Kalanchoe beharensis. It's considered a dwarf variety, typically reaching a height of about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) indoors, though it can grow larger (up to 0.8m or 2-3 feet) over time, especially outdoors.  
Flowers: In mid-summer, it may produce branching stems with clusters (cymes) of small, inconspicuous flowers that are typically flesh-colored or yellowish-green. However, flowering can be infrequent, especially in indoor environments.
 
Care:
Light: Kalanchoe 'Oak Leaf' thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct morning sun, which can enhance its leaf coloration. However, intense afternoon sun should be avoided as it can scorch the velvety leaves. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a loss of vibrant colors.  
Watering: Like most succulents, it is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering significantly in the fall and winter when the plant is semi-dormant. The soak-and-dry method is recommended.  
Soil: Plant in a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. This type of mix prevents excessive moisture retention around the roots. You can also amend regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage.
Temperature: It prefers average room temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F). It is not frost-hardy and should be protected from temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Humidity: It tolerates typical indoor humidity levels well. High humidity is not necessary and can potentially lead to fungal issues if combined with poor air circulation.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents, about once every 4-6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
Potting: Repot when the plant outgrows its container, typically every 1-2 years. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes. Clay pots are often preferred for succulents as they help with moisture evaporation.
 
Propagation:
Kalanchoe 'Oak Leaf' can be easily propagated through:
Leaf Cuttings: Gently remove a healthy leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean break. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days. Place the calloused leaf on top of well-draining soil or partially insert the cut end. Keep the soil lightly moist and in bright, indirect light until roots and new plantlets form.
Stem Cuttings: Take a stem cutting a few inches long and allow the cut end to callous over. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it lightly moist until it roots.
Offsets (Pups): Mature plants may produce small offsets at the base. These can be carefully separated and potted individually once they have developed some roots.
Uses:
Its unique and textured foliage makes it a popular choice for:
Indoor Decor: Adds visual interest to windowsills, shelves, and desks.
Succulent Collections: Provides a distinct and contrasting element among other succulents.
Terrariums and Dish Gardens: Its smaller size makes it suitable for these arrangements.
Container Gardening: Can be grown outdoors in containers in warmer climates.
Potential Problems:
Overwatering and Root Rot: The most common issue, preventable with proper watering and well-draining soil.
Leaf Drop: Can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or sudden changes in temperature.
Sunburn: Intense, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Pests: Generally resistant to pests but can occasionally be affected by mealybugs or scale.
 
In summary, Kalanchoe beharensis 'Oak Leaf' is a charming and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent with distinctive, velvety, oak-shaped leaves that add a unique textural and visual element to any plant collection or indoor space. Its compact size and interesting foliage make it a delightful addition for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.
 
 
* 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.