Common Name: Elephant Ear Kalanchoe
Latin Name: Kalanchoe beharensis
Family Name: Crassulaceae (Stonecrop family)
Geographical Range: Native to Madagascar, but cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Fun Fact: The plant’s large, velvety leaves resemble elephant ears and are covered in fine hairs that reduce water loss and protect it from intense sunlight in its native arid habitat, similar to the way that elephants ear are adapted to regulate their temperature.
Uses by people: It is popular as a decorative houseplant but has also been used in some traditional practices, it has been used for minor skin ailments, though parts of the plant may be toxic if ingested.
Uses by animals: It is generally avoided by herbivores due to its toxicity but pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, are attracted to its flowers when it blooms.
Roles in their ecosystem: It plays a role in water conservation by thriving in arid environments and contributing to the stability of its habitat. Its drought-resistant nature also helps it anchor soil and prevent erosion in arid regions.
