Carol Cloud Bailey
Family
Crassulaceae
Botanical Name
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi
Plant Common Name
Kalanchoe
General Description
Fondly known as lavender scallops, this low, shrubby, spreading succulent from Madagascar has sprawling stems that root where they touch ground. It bears small, oval, blue-gray, white-dusted leaves with toothed tips. The leaves may occasionally produce plantlets, which can drop to the ground and root. Spectacular clusters of dangling urn-shaped orange or red flowers with dusky pink calyces appear on erect stalks in winter and early spring. The blossoms attract hummingbirds. Flowering stems die after blooming.
Like most succulents, this one requires porous well-drained soil and ample light. It tolerates a couple degrees of frost. Water only when soil is dry. This plant thrives in full sun in moderate climates but needs midday shade in hot areas. Rejuvenate leggy old plants by pruning heavily, or grow new plants from cuttings stuck in sand. This succulent makes an exceptional subject for arid gardens and sunny greenhouses or windowsills. It has escaped gardens in areas such as Maui and Kauai, where it is considered invasive.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
10 - 15
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
12"-20" / 30.5cm - 50.8cm
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Winter, Late Winter
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Native To
Madagascar
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil type
Sand
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Xeric/Desert, Drought Tolerant
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Habit
Spreading
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Groundcover, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Attracts
Hummingbirds
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Self-Sowing
Yes
