Kalanchoe tomentosa - Panda Plant

Introducing Kalanchoe Tomentosa: The Panda Plant

Kalanchoe tomentosa, affectionately known as the Panda Plant, is a strikingly unique succulent that hails from the arid terrains of Madagascar. Belonging to the Crassulaceae family, this plant is a resilient grower in both rocky landscapes and indoor succulent displays. As a small, upright shrub, it can achieve heights of 35-45 cm, making it a versatile addition to rock gardens or indoor settings.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Order: Saxifragales
• Family: Crassulaceae
• Genus: Kalanchoe
• Species: K. tomentosa

The first thing one notices about the Panda Plant is its leaves—fleshy, spoon-shaped, and densely covered in tiny, silvery hairs. These hairs contribute to a greyish hue and a texture that's irresistibly soft to the touch. It's almost as if each leaf wears its own coat of fur.

But the Panda Plant isn't just a one-trick pony; it also produces flowers. These flowers are small, tubular, and tend to be a pale yellow. They emerge from long, upright stalks and bloom primarily during late winter to early spring.

The plant stands on a sturdy, woody stem, which supports the weight of the leaves. Over time, as the Panda Plant matures, it can reach heights of up to 60 cm.

Mastering Care: Light, Water, Soil, and More

Light Requirements

Panda Plants are sun-loving creatures that thrive in bright, indirect light. A window sill facing east or west would be an ideal spot. Too much direct sunlight can cause scorching of the leaves, but a lack of light can lead to elongated, pale foliage—a condition known botanically as etiolation.

Watering Techniques

As with many succulents, the Panda Plant's watering needs are minimal. Water the plant sparingly, making sure to let the soil dry out entirely between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a fatal condition for succulents.

When it comes to the frequency of watering, it can vary depending on the climate and the specific growing conditions in your area. In hot, dry conditions, you might need to water it once every two weeks, while in more temperate climates, once a month may suffice. Always check the soil's moisture level before watering.

Soil Preferences

It’s crucial to use well-draining soil, preferably a cactus or succulent mix, for your Panda Plant. The ideal pH balance should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6 to 7.

Propagation Insight

Propagation of the Panda Plant is usually carried out through leaf cuttings. However, the process is a bit more intricate than merely plucking a leaf and planting it. After taking a leaf cutting, it is crucial to let it callous over for at least a week to avoid rotting when planted. Once the leaf has properly callused, lay it flat on the soil, as this encourages the roots and new shoots to develop more evenly and efficiently. Water minimally, being careful not to wet the leaf itself, which can lead to rot, until you see new growth. This is a sign that the leaf has rooted successfully.

Temperature and Humidity

Panda Plants prefer a moderate temperature range of 18-24°C and can tolerate dry air quite well, but they don’t fare well in extremely humid environments.

Cultivars and Common Names

• Cultivars: Over the years, selective breeding has resulted in a few distinct cultivars worth mentioning. K. 'Chocolate Soldier' is loved for its darker, almost cocoa-colored leaves. K. 'Golden Girl' has a lighter hue, reminiscent of a sun-kissed morning. K. 'Teddy Bear' is similar in coloration to the original Panda Plant but has a more compact growth habit. Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Dorothy Brown' is similar in appearance to K. 'Chocolate Soldier' but known for its distinctively rich brown and reddish colouring. 
  

• Common Names: In various parts of the world, the Panda Plant is also known by different names such as "Pussy Ears," "Chocolate Soldier," and "Teddy Bear Plant."

Little Known Facts and Extra Tips

Although the Panda Plant is relatively easy to care for, there are a few tips that could optimize its growth even further:

• If you’re living in a more humid environment, consider using a dehumidifier or placing your Panda Plant in a room with lower humidity.

• Do not mist the leaves as this can lead to fungal infections. This is particularly true for Panda Plants due to their fuzzy leaf surface, which can trap moisture.

• For those interested in the more scientific aspects, Kalanchoe tomentosa belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes a wide variety of other easy-to-care-for plants perfect for beginner gardeners.

Kalanchoe tomentosa "Panda Plant" plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants to those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.

First time customers...  Please read our Shipping Guide, in top or bottom menu, before placing your order.

Please Note:

• All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
• Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website
• Some plants, may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
• Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them follow some simple care instructions you will find with your order.

If you have any questions or concerns at all, please message us via our Facebook page at John & Norma's Succulents for the fastest Response.