Panda plants, succulents belonging to the genus Kalanchoe. This extensive family is distinguished by its assembly of hairy succulents, each showcasing a unique allure. a plush, cute appearance intertwined with a palette of black and white tones. These features ingeniously mimic the likeness of panda ears, their form also evokes the delicate contour of rabbit ears, so they earned the name Panda Plants.
Panda plants offer a remarkable range of different types, sometimes dazzling. Let's dive in and take a closer look at the difference between panda plants:
10 Common Varieties of Panda Plants
1. Kalanchoe tomentosa
Kalanchoe tomentosa is one of the most common panda plants. For succulent lovers, the very mention of panda plants brings to mind the image of Kalanchoe tomentosa, as it is the original species of panda plants. Click here to learn how to care for Kalanchoe tomentosa panda plant.
Kalanchoe means hairy, velvety. The indoor succulent charming grayish-green leaves are entirely covered in tiny white-silvery hairs. Particularly striking are the brown serrations gracing the upper leaf margins, a defining feature that often presents as charmingly irregular. This delightful succulent can reach a height and diameter of up to 2 feet. Planting the panda plant with other succulent plants, you can make de delicate succulent arrangement.
2. Kalanchoe tomentosa Nigra
Kalanchoe tomentosa Nigra and Kalanchoe tomentosa are generally considered the two most common panda plants.
Kalanchoe tomentosa Nigra represents a smaller panda plant, characterized by its slender leaves. What truly sets it apart is the striking presence of black edges along the leaves. This feature is particularly responsive to changes in light and temperature, causing the whole plant to darken. A delicate layer of white fuzz blankets the surface, enhancing its unique appeal. So we can effortlessly distinguishable Kalanchoe tomentosa Nigra from other panda plants.
3. Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Golden Girl'
Kalanchoe Tomentosa 'Golden Girl', a variant of Kalanchoe Tomentosa. As the name suggests, its leaves exhibit a beautiful golden-yellow color.
The 'Golden Girl' Panda Plant has thin leaves that are elongated and narrow, with disconnected eye-like patterns. It tends to grow multiple rosettes, and the leaf color may have a greenish tint when lacking sufficient sunlight. Click here to learn why succulents turn green.
4. Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Chocolate Soldier'
Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Chocolate Soldier' is commonly known as the Chocolate Soldier plant. The succulent often leaves enthusiasts puzzled due to its uncanny resemblance to its counterpart, Kalanchoe tomentosa.
However, the striking dark chocolate-brown or deep maroon color along the leaf edges and tips sets 'Chocolate Soldier' apart. This succulent variety has narrower leaves than Kalanchoe tomentosa. The combination of the fuzzy gray-green base and the dark edges creates a beautiful contrast, giving the plant its alluring appearance.
5. Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Cinnamon'
As a shrubby succulent, Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Cinnamon' can grow up to 12-inch and grow many branchy. The young plants and new leaves of Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Cinnamon' are very similar to Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Chocolate Soldier' in charcoal color. But, the characteristics of adult leaves are more obvious.
Surprisingly, Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Cinnamon' boasts an even darker hue compared to the 'Chocolate Soldier'. The leaves of the panda plant are infused with rich, cinnamon tones that give off a burnt appearance.
6. Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Teddy Bear'
Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Teddy Bear' is a delightful variety of the Kalanchoe tomentosa plants, known for its adorable and cuddly appearance, resembling a teddy bear's soft and fuzzy texture.
Similar to the original Kalanchoe tomentosa, 'Teddy Bear' features wider, oval-shaped leaves with a thick and velvety texture, making it a plumper version of Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Chocolate Soldier'. The leaves are covered in denser and fluffier foliage white-silvery hairs, contributing to their soft and fuzzy look.
7. Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang'
Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang', also known as Kalanchoe 'Fang', is a striking and unique succulent plant. The name 'Fang' is derived from the distinctive shape of its underside of leaves with tubercles resembling sharp fang.
This succulent features large, triangular leaves with serrated edges that are dotted with brown and its feature fang, giving it a fascinating and somewhat intimidating look. Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang' overall growth habit is upright and bushy.
8. Kalanchoe 'Roseleaf'
Kalanchoe 'Roseleaf' is a captivating succulent characterized by its sturdy, upright stems that bear triangular, silvery-green leaves with a velvety texture and serrated edges. It can reach a height of up to 12 inches (30 cm). The leaves are thick, fleshy, and symmetrically arranged in a cross-like pattern, often displaying a brownish hue on the upper surface. The leaf margins may also feature brown markings, adding to its visual appeal.
Kalanchoe 'Roseleaf' and Kalanchoe beharensis 'Fang,' share a remarkable resemblance. However, a swift glance at their distinguishing features sets them apart. While Kalanchoe 'Roseleaf' exhibits its characteristic allure without fangs on the back of its leaves, the defining trait of 'Fang' becomes instantly apparent.
9. Kalanchoe eriophylla / Snow White Panda Plant
Kalanchoe eriophylla, also known as Snow White Panda Plant or White Lady, is a charming succulent belonging to the Kalanchoe genus. This panda plant is native to South Africa and is popular for its unique and attractive appearance.
Snow White Panda Plant has small, round to oval-shaped leaves with a velvety texture. The leaves display a soft and velvety look due to the presence of delicate white hairs. The foliage is silvery-white or grayish, when this panda plant undergoes stress, its leaves turn cinnamon-pink in color. contrasting with the surrounding greenery.
10. Kalanchoe Millotii
Kalanchoe millotii, also known as Thousand-Panda Plant. Like other Panda Plants, it has a soft and velvety surface on its leaves, giving them a pleasant tactile sensation. Apart from its fuzzy leaves, what makes Thousand-Panda plant attractive is its beautifully symmetrical and opposite arrangement of leaves, resembling the serrated shape of cute white maple leaves.
Overall, it exudes an adorable and fluffy appearance. The stems of this plant can become woody, and they can be pruned and shaped by controlling the water supply. It produces small white flowers, and the time from the emergence of flower stalks to full bloom can take several months. It can also produce pink-colored flowers.
How to Care for Panda Plants?
Caring for the Panda Plant is a breeze as it requires minimal attention to thrive. It's an excellent choice for busy office workers or those with limited gardening experience who may need to remember to water their plants.
Sunlight: Panda plants thrive in full, direct sun but can also be quite happy in moderate sun. Just make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. Place them near a window with filtered light to ensure they receive the right amount of light without direct exposure to harsh sunlight. You can use 55% shade cloth for outdoor panda plants in summer to protect them from sunburn.
Temperature: Panda palnts thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F. Protect them from frost and extreme cold, as they are sensitive to freezing temperatures. If bringing the plant indoors is not feasible or you want to protect outdoor plants, use frost cloth or covers specifically designed for plants. These covers provide insulation and protect the plant from frost and cold winds.
Soil: Since panda plants are prone to root rot, especially when left sitting on wet soil for too long, the cactus and succulent potting mix with good drainage capabilities is highly recommended. Use a 50% high-quality commercial succulent or cactus potting mix as the base. Introduce 25% perlite into the blend to enhance drainage and avoid excessive soil compaction. Then, incorporate 25% pumice or coarse sand into the mix for additional drainage and to prevent waterlogged soil.
Watering: Panda plants are characterized by their thick leaf hairs, which contribute to their exceptional water retention abilities. As a result, they require less frequent watering. Watering should follow the "soak and dry" way, try to avoid pouring water directly on the fluffy leaves.
How to propagate panda plants?
Propagating Kalanchoe tomentosa involves stem cuttings propagation and offset propagation or chicks propagation. They are typically done during the growing season (Spring) for better success rates. While both methods are straightforward, many find stem cuttings easier, as they can root within 15 to 20 days.
To propagate through stem cuttings, choose a healthy and mature stem about a few inches long with at least two leaves. Make a clean cut just above the stem node, then allow it to dry for 1 to 3 days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Click here to learn the extra tips for succulent propagation.
For chick plant propagation, gently split the chick baby plant from the hen plant, ensuring there are still some roots left on the chick plant. Let the wound get callous for at least two days before planting the chick succulent.
You may wonder: A Complete Guide to Propagate Kalanchoe Tomentosa Panda Plants.
Conclusion
The world of panda plants is a captivating one, filled with a diverse array of varieties, each possessing its own unique charm. Low-maintenance and visually captivating, whether you're picking your first plant or expanding your collection, step into the world of panda plants and let their beauty inspire your green thumb adventures.
