Kleinia galpinii is a beautiful succulent native to Eswatini and South Africa. It has a compact growth habit, and its vibrant orange flowers create a striking contrast with its bluish-green foliage, making it an excellent choice for containers or garden displays. This species has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, recognizing it as a valuable ornamental plant for warm-temperate greenhouses.
Taxonomy of Kleinia galpinii
Scientific Name
Kleinia galpinii Hook.f.
Synonym(s)
Senecio galpinii, Senecio galpini, Notoniopsis galpinii
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Senecioneae
Subtribe: Senecioninae
Genus: Kleinia
Etymology
The generic name "Kleinia" (pronounced "KLINE-ee-uh") honors Jacob Theodor Klein (1685-1759), also known by the nickname Plinius Gedanensium, a German jurist, historian, botanist, zoologist, mathematician, and diplomat in the service of Polish King August II the Strong.
The specific epithet "galpinii" (pronounced "gal-PIN-ee-eye") honors Ernest Edward Galpin (1858–1941), a South African botanist and banker.
Description of Kleinia galpinii
Kleinia galpinii, also known as Senecio galpinii, is a compact succulent with erect to ascending stems and bluish-green leaves. It can grow up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall. The leaves are fleshy and range in shape from narrowly obovate to oblanceolate, measuring up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) in length and 1.2 inches (3 cm) in width.
From late summer to early winter, Kleinia galpinii produces attractive flower heads of densely crowded, brilliant orange florets. The flowerheads can reach a diameter of 1.6 inches (4 cm) and may appear solitary or in a loose branching cluster of up to 7.
Origin of Kleinia galpinii
Kleinia galpinii is native to Eswatini and South Africa (Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, and a single record from KwaZulu-Natal). It grows in cracks on rocks and cliff faces.
According to P.P.J. Herman and Gillian Condy from the South African National Biodiversity Institute, although specimens collected in Mozambique and Zimbabwe are labeled as Kleinia galpinii in Kew, they do not belong to this taxon, as they have yellow flowers with much smaller corolla lobes in contrast to the orange flowers of this species. Additionally, they have different bracts on the peduncle.
How to Grow and Care for Kleinia galpinii
Light: Kleinia galpinii thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or light dappled shade. It can tolerate early morning sun but should be protected from harsh midday sun during the summer to prevent leaf scorching. Indoors, a window with filtered light is ideal.
Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for the healthy growth of this succulent. Use a commercial potting mix specifically designed for succulents, or make your own mix.
Temperature: Like most succulents, Kleinia galpinii is well-adapted to tolerate drought and heat but does not tolerate cold temperatures very well. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9a-11b, which have average annual extreme minimum winter temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F (-6.7°C to 10°C).
Watering: During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. In winter, when the plant becomes somewhat dormant, reduce watering significantly.
Fertilizing: Be cautious with fertilization, as excessive amounts can lead to leggy growth. Feed with a dilute solution of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer only during the growing season.
Repotting: This plant does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger and ensure it has drainage holes.
Propagation: Kleinia galpinii can be easily propagated from stem cuttings during the growing season. It can also be propagated from seed when available. The best time to take cuttings and sow seeds is in late spring and early summer.
Learn more in "How to Grow and Care for Senecio."
Toxicity of Kleinia galpinii
Kleinia galpinii is generally non-toxic; however, it's best to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Kleinia.
- Explore all plants within the family Asteraceae.
References
- "The Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Home Farmer" ser. 3, vol. 24 (1892).
- "Flowering Plants of Africa 57:92-95 (2001)". P.P.J. Herman and Gillian Condy, South African National Biodiversity Institute.
- "Kleinia galpinii Hook.f.". Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Retrieved 2025-11-13.
- "Kleinia galpinii". RHS Gardening. The Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 2025-11-13.
- "Kleinia galpinii". iNaturalist. Retrieved 2025-11-13.