Contents
Description
Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier, commonly known as Panda Plant or Chocolate Soldier, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Madagascar and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and ease of care.The plant has thick, fuzzy leaves that are olive green in color with chocolate brown tips, giving it a panda-like appearance. The leaves grow up to 3 inches long and are arranged in a rosette pattern. During winter, the plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are pink or yellow in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
Appearance
Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier is a small, slow-growing plant that can reach up to 1 foot in height and 1 foot in width. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. They are olive green in color with chocolate brown tips, giving the plant its unique appearance.The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are pink or yellow in color. The flowers grow on long, thin stems that emerge from the center of the rosette of leaves. The plant blooms in winter and early spring.
Care Guide
Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here is a detailed care guide for this plant:Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water the plant deeply, but infrequently, to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite works well.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be prone to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier is native to Madagascar and grows in rocky, arid regions. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.Q: How often should I fertilize my Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: Can I propagate Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings.Q: How often should I water my Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water the plant deeply, but infrequently.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier:
- Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora
- Kalanchoe Luciae
- Kalanchoe Pinnata
- Kalanchoe Fedtschenkoi
- Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
References
- “Kalanchoe Tomentosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c623.
- “Kalanchoe Tomentosa.” Gardening Know How. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/chocolate-soldier/kalanchoe-chocolate-soldier-care.htm.
- “Kalanchoe Tomentosa Chocolate Soldier.” World of Succulents. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/kalanchoe-tomentosa-chocolate-soldier-panda-plant/.
