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 grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall, branching at the base to form a dense mat. All These hairs give the otherwise green leaves a silvery-white shimmer. The main stem is slender, sub-woody, decumbent, and grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, rooting at the nodes. Branches are up to 2 inches (5 cm) long. Leaves are thick fleshy and turn deep crimson when the plant is grown in the winter sun.
The flowers are erect or spreading, bell-shaped, 4-petaled, vary in color from pink, violet to blue-violet and appear in 2- to 7-flowered clusters on up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall stalk in early spring.
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 down 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
