It is a beautiful and unique shaped flowering plant. Kalanchoe luciae, commonly known as Flapjacks or paddle plant, is a striking succulent with paddle-shaped leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long.
This plant is native to South Africa and is characterized by its thick fleshy leaves that are paddle-shaped and develops a vibrant red colour on the margins when exposed to bright sunlight. you can grow this plant both indoors and outdoors, and they are also low maintaining and do not demand much attention.They grow very slowly and take approximately 3 to 4 years to full maturity.
It belongs to the Crassulaceae family.It also produces clusters of small tubular flowers on tall stalks, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.It is toxic to pets if ingested. It contains bufadienolides, which are toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal issues in animals. It’s important for pet owners to keep these plants out of reach of curious pets to prevent any accidental ingestions and potential health problems.
Kalanchoe luciae vs. Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora
Kalanchoe luciae and Kalanchoe thyrsiflora are often mistaken for each other due to their similar appearance, but they have distinct differences. While both belong to the succulent family, Kalanchoe luciae is known for its vibrant red-edged leaves that form a rosette shape. On the other hand, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora features more flattened and paddle-like green leaves with red margins that give it a unique and architectural look.
In terms of growth habits, Kalanchoe luciae tends to be more compact and clump-forming compared to the towering and upright nature of Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.Kalanchoe thyrsiflora produces tall stalks with bell-shaped blooms in shades of yellow or orange, while Kalanchoe luciae’s blooms are more understated and appear on shorter stems. Both plants require similar care with well-draining soil and bright light.
Kalanchoe luciae Care Guide
They are low maintaining and very easy to care for.you don’t need to be worried about them.They are also not susceptible to pets diseases. They have very limited watering and feeding needs.They are monocarpic in nature, which means it flowers once at the end of its lifespan and then dies. But they produce new offsets at the base.You can replant them in a newer pot.
Sunlight Requirements
They thrive in direct sunlight. They need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight to develop their red margins. If you notice the leaves starting to stretch out or lose their vibrant colouring, it may be a sign that the plant is not getting enough light. it is also important to protect it from harsh afternoon sun, which can cause sunburn on the leaves. One tip for ensuring the proper amount of light for your Flapjack plant is to observe its color – if the leaves turn a dull green or white instead of their characteristic red or pink hue, it may be an indication that the plant needs more sunlight. Place them near the south facing window indoors.
Soil Requirements
This succulent thrives in well-draining soil that prevents water from pooling around the roots. Using a mix of cactus potting soil and perlite can help create the ideal growing medium for this plant.
Water Requirements
They are drought tolerant like other succulents.They do not frequent water because they can store water within their thick leaves.Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant entirely. It is crucial to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent this issue.
One effective way to determine when your Kalanchoe luciae needs water is by checking the soil moisture level with your finger. Stick your finger into the soil up to an inch deep – if it feels dry, then it’s time for watering.Use a well-draining succulent mix and ensure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water from pooling at the roots.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements
This plant prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C) and does best in mild to hot climates. However, it can also tolerate some fluctuations in temperature but does not fare well in extreme cold.During the cooler months, make sure to protect it from frost by bringing it indoors or providing proper insulation.
This plant hails from the arid regions of Madagascar and therefore does not tolerate dry air well. Maintaining a humidity level between 50-60% is ideal for promoting healthy growth and preventing issues like leaf drying or curling.
Fertilizer Requirements
They are not heavy feeders and do not require frequent fertilising.Fertilizing once a year should be enough. If you are going to fertilize,use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength during its active growing season in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter, as the plant goes into a dormant period and does not require additional nutrients.Over-fertilizing can lead to root burn or excess salt buildup in the soil, which may harm your Kalanchoe luciae.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for these plants. Yes, you can prune the dead or damaged leaves and also for maintaining its shape.
How to propagate Kalanchoe luciae
It can be propagated by three methods, i.e., offsets, leaves, and cutting. To propagate Kalanchoe luciae from offsets, start by gently removing the offsets or pups that have formed around the base of the mother plant. Ensure that each offset has a small root system attached to it and plant them in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new growth appears, signalling successful propagation.
For leaf propagation, select healthy leaves from the mother plant and allow them to callous over for a few days before placing them on top of well-draining soil. Mist the soil lightly every few days to keep it moist but not waterlogged. New plants should begin to sprout from the base of the leaf within a few weeks.
Cutting propagation involves taking stem cuttings from mature plants and allowing them to dry out for a day or two. Plant the cuttings in a mixture of perlite and potting soil, keeping them in bright indirect light. Root formation should occur within a few weeks, leading to new growth and thriving Kalanchoe luciae plants ready for repotting into larger containers.
Repotting
They do not need frequent repotting. Just repot them once a year after blooming to refresh the soil.The ideal time to repot this succulent is in the spring or summer months when it is actively growing.Also, choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Common pets/diseases of Kalanchoe luciae
While these plants are generally not prune to pets due to their bitter taste, they can still face challenges from common issues like powdery mildew and pesky insects such as mealybugs, mites, and scale. These pests can wreak havoc on the vibrant leaves of the Kalanchoe luciae if left unchecked, causing damage that may be difficult to reverse.