Flapjacks
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora · Paddle Plant · White LadyUSDA | 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 top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 30-50%
- Temperature
- 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 1-2 ft tall, 1-1.5 ft wide
- Pets
- Mildly toxic to pets
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, commonly known as Flapjacks or Paddle Plant, is a striking succulent native to Madagascar. Its unique, paddle-shaped leaves and vibrant colors make it a popular choice for indoor gardens and succulent collections.
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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
- 1-2 ft tall, 1-1.5 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora prefers to dry out between waterings.
Water thoroughly when the top inch 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 about 6 hours of light daily. Too little light can lead to leggy growth, while too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Soil
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora prefers well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This succulent enjoys low humidity levels, typically around 30-50%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the plant lightly or place it on a pebble tray with water. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf edges and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
It is hardy in zones 10-11 and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as cold drafts can damage the plant.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce feeding in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Kalanchoe thyrsiflora in early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. 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
Propagation can be done 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 roots develop. The best time for propagation is in spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate light.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Occurs when the plant does not receive enough light.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by waterlogged soil and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. If root rot occurs, remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Browning leaf edges
Why it happens
Typically a sign of low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity or adjust watering schedule to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Pests (like mealybugs)
Why it happens
Pests can infest the plant due to poor air circulation or high humidity.
How to fix it
Remove pests with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and improve air circulation around the plant.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering as the plant begins to actively grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright light and water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Stop fertilizing until spring.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location and water sparingly, as it requires less moisture during this dormant period.
Toxicity & Safety
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora 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 thyrsiflora?
Water your Kalanchoe thyrsiflora every 2-3 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Why are my Kalanchoe thyrsiflora leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure the plant receives enough bright light.
What type of soil is best for Kalanchoe thyrsiflora?
A well-draining cactus or succulent mix with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for Kalanchoe thyrsiflora.
Can I propagate Kalanchoe thyrsiflora from leaves?
Yes, you can propagate Kalanchoe thyrsiflora from leaf cuttings. Allow the cut end to callous before placing it in soil.
What temperature is best for Kalanchoe thyrsiflora?
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and should be protected from cold drafts.
How do I prune my Kalanchoe thyrsiflora?
Prune your Kalanchoe thyrsiflora in early spring by removing dead or damaged leaves with clean scissors.
Is Kalanchoe thyrsiflora toxic to pets?
Yes, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is mildly toxic to pets, causing vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
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