Scientific Name
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Variegata'
Common Name(s)
Aurora Borealis, Variegated Lavender Scallops
Synonym(s)
Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi f. variegatum, Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi 'Variegatum', Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi f. variegata, Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Marginata', Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi f. marginata, Kalanchoe 'Aurora Borealis', Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Rosy Dawn'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Genus: Bryophyllum
Description
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Variegata', also known as Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi 'Variegatum', is a small shrubby succulent with stems that spread out and root along the ground to form large colonies. It grows up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall. Leaves are thick and fleshy, lavender-gray-green with cream-colored variegation along the scalloped leaf margins. Flowers are reddish-brown, bell-shaped, and 0.8 inches (2 cm) long and hang in loose clusters from upright stems from late spring to early summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Kalanchoe care is minimal but be cautious about light levels. Intense southern light can burn the tips of the leaves. Place pots in partial sun to light shade areas when growing Kalanchoes.
The flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful and long-lasting flowers. They prefer bright, sunny locations, especially in the summer growing season. During the winter, consider a south-facing window. Water moderately throughout the summer and reduce watering in the winter. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings, and in the winter, the plant can almost dry out. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. They prefer warmth. Don't let fall below 55 ºF (13 ºC). An ordinary potting soil mix is fine. Feed bi-weekly in the summer with a liquid fertilizer, or use slow-release pellets.
These small plants require repotting every few years. When repotting, take additional care in handling as the leaves are somewhat brittle and can snap easily. Clay pots work exceptionally well for planting Kalanchoes. Ensure pots can drain well, and saucers can empty easily.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.
Origin
This succulent is a form of Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi selected for its variegated foliage.
Links
- Back to genus Bryophyllum
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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