Scientific Name
Kalanchoe eriophylla Hils. & Bojer ex Tul.
Common Name(s)
Blue Kalanchoe, Felt Plant, Snow White Panda Plant
Synonym(s)
Cotyledon pannosa
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Origin
Kalanchoe eriophylla is native to central Madagascar. It grows on rocks.
Description
Kalanchoe eriophylla is a dwarf, much-branched succulent with all parts covered with a whitish or pinky felt of long stellate hairs. It can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall and branch at the base, forming a dense mat as it matures. All these hairs give the otherwise green leaves a silvery-white shimmer. The main stem is slender, sub-woody, decumbent, and can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, rooting at the nodes. The branches can reach a length of 2 inches (5 cm). The leaves are thick and fleshy and turn deep crimson when the plant is grown in the winter sun.
The flowers are erect or spreading, bell-shaped, 4-petaled, and vary in color from pink and violet to blue-violet. They appear in early spring in 2- to 7-flowered clusters on stalks that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Kalanchoe care is minimal, but be cautious about light levels. Intense sunlight 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 growing season. Water moderately from fall to winter when the growth is most active. Reduce watering during the hottest summer months when the plants are mostly dormant and winter when the growth slows significantly. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. An ordinary potting soil mix is fine. Feed bi-weekly during the growing season 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.
Links
- Back to genus Kalanchoe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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