Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, commonly known as the paddle plant or flapjack plant, is a striking succulent with bold foliage that brings a touch of desert charm to your home. The unique foliage makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardening.
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Why will I love it?
The paddle plant, or Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, is a captivating succulent that will effortlessly enhance your indoor garden with its bold, paddle-shaped leaves. These leaves are a standout feature, boasting a gradient of green to red hues, especially when exposed to plenty of sunlight. It’s a low-maintenance plant that offers a unique aesthetic appeal, perfect for both novice and seasoned indoor gardeners.
Light or shade?
The paddle plant thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. However, it can also handle some direct sun, which intensifies its red leaf margins. Ideally, you should place it in a spot where it receives about six hours of light daily, such as a south or west-facing windowsill.
Where should I put it?
Thanks to its compact size and striking appearance, the paddle plant is versatile in placement. You can set it on a sunny windowsill, a bright shelf, or use it as a centerpiece on your dining table. It’s the perfect plant to bring a pop of color and texture to any room.
How do I keep it alive?
Keeping the paddle plant happy is quite simple. Water it thoroughly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, reduce watering significantly. Overwatering is the most common mistake, so ensure your plant is in a pot with good drainage and planted in well-draining soil, like a cactus mix. This succulent prefers warm temperatures (18-24°C) and low humidity. Fertilize with a balanced, diluted fertilizer during its growth phases.
Did you know?
The paddle plant is native to South Africa and is sometimes referred to as the “desert cabbage” due to its rosette-like leaf arrangement. It’s incredibly easy to propagate through leaf cuttings, making it a wonderful plant to share with friends and family. But be cautious—like many succulents, it’s toxic if ingested, so keep it away from pets and small children.
Introduce the paddle plant to your garden and enjoy its vibrant beauty and easy-care nature.
