Scientific Name
Kalanchoe scapigera Welw. ex Britten
Common Name(s)
Mealy Kalanchoe
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Etymology
The specific epithet "scapigera" (pronounced "skap-ih-GER-uh") means "scape-bearing; having a scape" and refers to this species' scapiform inflorescences.
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 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.
In spring, Kalanchoe scapigera produces salmon-colored, tubular flowers on a stalk that rises from the center of the rosette. The whole plant is glabrous and covered with white powder.
Origin
Kalanchoe scapigera is native to Angola. It grows among rocks and in rock fissures in Namibe Province.
How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe scapigera
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Kalanchoe care is minimal, but watch light levels. Intense sunlight can burn leaf tips. When growing Kalanchoes, place pots in partial sun to light shade areas.
Flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful, long-lasting blooms. 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 in winter, when growth slows significantly. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. A standard succulent potting mix works well. 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, handle them carefully, 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
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