Scientific Name
Kalanchoe scapigera Welw. ex Britten
Common Name(s)
Mealy Kalanchoe
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Origin
Kalanchoe scapigera is native to Angola (Namibe Province).
Description
Kalanchoe scapigera is a small branched succulent with short woody stems and round reddish to yellow copper, more or less rosulate leaves at the tips of the stems. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are thick, fleshy, obovate to nearly disc-shaped, and can measure up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long and 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide. The stems are cylindrical or slightly tapering, rugose, sparingly branched, and can grow up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) tall.
The scapiform inflorescences bear salmon-red tubular flowers. The whole plant is glabrous and covered with white powder.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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. When growing Kalanchoes, place pots in partial sun to light shade areas.
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 drain well and saucers 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
