Scientific Name
Kalanchoe orgyalis Baker
Common Name(s)
Copper Spoons, Cinnamon Bear, Leather Plant, Shoe Leather Kalanchoe
Synonym(s)
Kalanchoe antanosiana, Kalanchoe cantonasyana
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Origin
Kalanchoe orgyalis is native to southern and southwestern Madagascar. It grows as a xerophytic bush on rocks and various soils.
Description
Kalanchoe orgyalis is a succulent shrub with stout, erect, much-branched stems with fleshy, ovate leaves that fold upward from the middle. It slowly grows and can reach up to 6.6 feet (2 m) in height but is usually seen as a smaller plant. The stems and leaves are densely covered with characteristic short hairs, resulting in a glabrous appearance. The leaves are bronze to gray on the underside, while the top side is felted with fine cinnamon-colored hairs that eventually age to the same color as the lower surface. They are petiolate, measuring up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and 4 inches (10 cm) wide.
The bright yellow flowers appear in terminal clusters at the branch tips from late winter to early spring.
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 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
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