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Description
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, commonly known as paddle plant or flapjacks, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has paddle-shaped leaves that are blue-green or gray-green in color. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, and the plant produces a tall, branched inflorescence that bears small, tubular, yellow-green flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
Appearance
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is a striking plant with its paddle-shaped leaves that grow up to 25 cm long and 10 cm wide. The leaves are fleshy and have a waxy coating that gives them a blue-green or gray-green color. The leaf margins have a reddish tint and are slightly curled under, giving the plant a unique look. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, and as the plant matures, the lower leaves turn brown and wither away, leaving a bare stem. The plant produces a tall, branched inflorescence that rises above the foliage and bears small, tubular, yellow-green flowers.
Care Guide
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Here are some care tips:
Water: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is designed for succulent plants.
Sunlight: Kalanchoe thyrsiflora prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can also be grown indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these pests, regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with an insecticide if necessary. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or if the soil doesn’t drain well.
Habitat
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is native to the rocky slopes and cliffs of South Africa, where it grows in well-draining soil and receives bright, indirect sunlight. The plant is well-adapted to arid conditions and can survive extended periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kalanchoe thyrsiflora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is planted in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe thyrsiflora?
A: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: Is Kalanchoe thyrsiflora toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.
Q: Can Kalanchoe thyrsiflora be propagated from stem cuttings?
A: Yes, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Kalanchoe daigremontiana
- Kalanchoe luciae
- Kalanchoe pinnata
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana
References
- “Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c910.
- “Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/kalanthyr.htm.
- “Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/kalanchoe-thyrsiflora-paddle-plant-flapjacks/.
