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Description
Kalanchoe Pumila, also known as Kalanchoe Fedtschenkoi, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Madagascar and is commonly used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and bright flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
Appearance
Kalanchoe Pumila has a compact growth habit and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are fleshy and oblong, with a bluish-green color and white spots. The flowers are small and tubular, with a bright pinkish-red color and appear in clusters on the top of the stems.
Care Guide
Kalanchoe Pumila is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus or succulent soil.
- Sunlight: Kalanchoe Pumila prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Too much sun can cause the leaves to turn brown or scorched.
- Hardiness Zones: Kalanchoe Pumila is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalanchoe Pumila is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can cause wilting or leaf drop.
Habitat
Kalanchoe Pumila is native to Madagascar and can be found in rocky or sandy areas. It is adapted to drought conditions and can store water in its leaves and stems.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Kalanchoe Pumila?
A: Water the plant thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: How tall can Kalanchoe Pumila grow?
A: Kalanchoe Pumila can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and wide.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Kalanchoe Pumila?
A: Kalanchoe Pumila is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Kalanchoe Pumila?
A: Kalanchoe Pumila is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
- Kalanchoe Beharensis
- Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora
- Kalanchoe Tomentosa
References
- “Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b633.
- “Kalanchoe Pumila.” World of Succulents. https://worldofsucculents.com/kalanchoe-fedtschenkoi-kalanchoe-pumila/.
- “Kalanchoe Pumila.” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/kalanchoe-fedtschenkoi-kalanchoe-pumila.
