Kalanchoe marmorata (Penwiper Plant)

Scientific Name

Kalanchoe marmorata Baker

Common Names

Penwiper, Penwiper Plant, Spotted Kalanchoe

Synonyms

Kalanchoe grandiflora, Kalanchoe macrantha

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe

Description

Kalanchoe marmorata is an erect or decumbent succulent perennial growing to 16 inches (40 cm) tall and wide. The leaves are glaucous, spotted with purple, up to 8 inches (20 cm) long and up to 5 inches (13 cm) wide. The flowers are starry white, four-petalled, sometimes tinged with pink, in spring.

Photo via calphotos.berkeley.edu

How to Grow and Care

Kalanchoes are not particularly hard to grow, and the flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful and long-lasting flowers. Many people discard the plants after the bloom is over, but this isn’t really necessary. Simply cut off the flowering head, let the plant rest with reduced water, and resume its normal care. It should flower naturally in spring. Professional growers force Kalanchoes to bloom throughout the year (they are a short-day plant).

The two pendant Kalanchoes make excellent hanging plants. 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. Do not let fall below 55ºF (12.7ºC). Feed bi-weekly in the summer with a liquid fertilizer, or use slow-release pellets… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.