Kalanchoe luciae
Kalanchoe luciaeUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When the top 1-2 in is dry
- Humidity
- 30-50%
- Temperature
- 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- Up to 2 ft tall
- Pets
- Mildly toxic to pets
Kalanchoe luciae, also known as the paddle plant, is a striking succulent native to Madagascar. Its unique, paddle-shaped leaves make it a popular choice for indoor gardens, thriving in bright light and requiring minimal care.
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Ideal temperature
65-80°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- Up to 2 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Kalanchoe luciae prefers to dry out between waterings.
Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and less frequently in fall and winter. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and mushy stems, while under-watering may cause leaves to shrivel and drop.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of light daily. Too little light can cause leggy growth, while too much direct sun may scorch the leaves.
Soil
Kalanchoe luciae prefers well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water retention, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This succulent thrives in low to moderate humidity levels, ideally between 30-50%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place it on a pebble tray with water. Signs of low humidity stress include leaf curling and browning edges.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Kalanchoe luciae is 65-80°F (18-27°C).
It is hardy in zones 10-11 and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) to prevent damage.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season and reduce or stop in winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Kalanchoe luciae in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to shape the plant.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent leaves can promote a healthier appearance.
Repotting
Repot Kalanchoe luciae every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot one size larger with drainage holes. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Kalanchoe luciae can be propagated through leaf cuttings or offsets.
For leaf cuttings, take a healthy leaf, allow it to callous for a few days, then place it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new growth appears. The best time for propagation is in spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Under-watering or sudden temperature changes
How to fix it
Adjust watering schedule and protect the plant from drafts and temperature fluctuations.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil
How to fix it
Remove the plant from the pot, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Pest infestations (e.g., mealybugs)
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and improve air circulation around the plant.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering as the plant begins to actively grow, and consider fertilizing every 4-6 weeks to support new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright light and monitor for pests, as they may become more active in warmer temperatures.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy, and stop fertilizing until spring.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location and reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Toxicity & Safety
Kalanchoe luciae is considered mildly toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It is also not recommended for children due to potential gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Kalanchoe luciae?
Water your Kalanchoe luciae every 2-3 weeks, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Why are my Kalanchoe luciae leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure you are allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What kind of light does Kalanchoe luciae need?
Kalanchoe luciae prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Aim for 6-8 hours of light daily.
Can I propagate my Kalanchoe luciae from leaves?
Yes, you can propagate Kalanchoe luciae from leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callous before placing them in well-draining soil.
What temperature is best for Kalanchoe luciae?
Kalanchoe luciae thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
How do I know when to repot my Kalanchoe luciae?
Repot your Kalanchoe luciae every 2-3 years or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes, indicating it has outgrown its pot.
Is Kalanchoe luciae toxic to pets?
Yes, Kalanchoe luciae is mildly toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs, and can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
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