Kalanchoe tomentosa — "Panda Plant" succulent with fleshy leaves covered in velvety silver hairs with reddish margins. From Madagascar.
Approx height (including pot): 10 cm
Pot diameter: 6.5 cm
Kalanchoe tomentosa, popularly known as "Panda Plant" or "panda ears", is a fascinating succulent from Madagascar. Leaves are thick, fleshy, oval, covered with fine silver hairs giving a velvety effect, with brownish-reddish margins. The species name (Latin "tomentosa" = covered with hairs) reflects the unique texture.
Grows compactly, tolerant succulent, ideal for beginners. A popular plant due to its amusing appearance and minimal care requirements.
Madagascar, arid and semi-arid areas.
Direct sun or very bright light, temperatures 18-28°C, humidity 30-50% (tolerates dryness), cactus/succulent substrate, infrequent watering.
Tubular yellowish-green flowers, rare in apartment cultivation.
Toxic to cats and dogs (cardiac glycosides). Keep away from pets.
Lungime: 10 cm
Greutate (kg): 0.25 Kg
Denumire: Kalanchoe
Diametru: 6.5 cm
Cerințe lumină: Partial umbra
Tip plantă: Suculente
Utilizare: Interior
Tip suport: Ghiveci
Material Suport: Plastic
Yes, Kalanchoe tomentosa is TOXIC to cats and dogs according to ASPCA. The leaves contain bufadienolides (cardiac glycosides) that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac arrhythmias. Place the plant in locations inaccessible to pets.
Water rarely — once every 10–14 days in summer and every 21–30 days in winter. Let the substrate dry completely between waterings. Water only the base of the plant, avoiding the velvety leaves which can rot.
Kalanchoe tomentosa tolerates and prefers a few hours of direct sun per day, plus bright indirect light. Without sufficient light, the plant etiolates ("stretches"). A south or west-facing window is ideal.
Kalanchoe tomentosa propagates easily from leaf or stem cuttings. Let the cutting dry for 2–3 days, then plant in dry substrate. Do not water for 5–7 days. Roots appear within 2–4 weeks.
The popular name "Panda Plant" comes from the dark brown spots on the leaf tips that resemble a panda bear's ears. The silvery, velvety leaves add to the resemblance to animal fur.
The fleshy leaves covered in fine silver hairs recall the soft velvety ears of panda bears. The combination of silver-white with brownish-reddish margins gives this adorable appearance.
Very rarely! Only when substrate is completely dry, approximately every 2-3 weeks in summer and once every 4-6 weeks in winter. Overwatering causes root rot.
Yes, Kalanchoe tomentosa is toxic to cats and dogs due to cardiac glycosides. Ingestion can cause serious heart problems. Keep STRICTLY away from pets.
Special cactus and succulent substrate - perlite, sand, fine gravel and minimal organic matter. Excellent drainage is crucial. Don't use regular potting soil.
Very easily by leaf or stem cuttings. Let the cut dry for a few days, then plant in dry succulent substrate. Roots appear in 2-4 weeks.