Paddle plant, also known as flapjack, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, or desert cabbage, whose thick, round leaves turn red at the edges under bright sunlight. This low-maintenance plant thrives indoors and outdoors, which makes it a popular choice for rookies and seasoned gardeners alike. This post will introduce everything to you to keep your Kalanchoe thyrsiflora thriving and healthy.

Sunlight Requirements

Kalanchoe thyrsiflora loves bright, indirect light. If grown indoors, place it near a south- or west-facing window. When grown outdoors, it prefers a spot with partial sun to full sunlight. Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can also accept some direct sunlight, especially in spring and fall. 4-6 hours of morning or late afternoon sun is better. Gradually increase exposure to full sun to prevent sunburn.

Watering Needs

This succulent is drought-tolerant and prefers the “soak-and-dry” method. Water only when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. During winter, reduce watering since the plant enters a semi-dormant state. Before watering, remember to check the soil. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure for succulents.

Soil

A well-draining succulent mix is ideal for Kalanchoe thyrsiflora. You can use commercial cactus soil or depend on your own mix by combining potting soil with some specific stones, such as zeolite rocks or maifanitum stones. You can find all these stones on our website, which are designed to support succulent growth more effectively than regular sand.

Pots

A pot with drainage holes is beneficial to prevent water retention. Terracotta pots are the best because they let air in and help with drainage, preventing root rot. A plant pot that is just a little larger than the plant's root ball is better. If the pot is too big, the roots might expand rapidly and it can slow down the plant's growth. 

Temperature

Paddle plants prefer warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). They are not frost-tolerant, so when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), bring them indoors.

In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can be grown outdoors year-round. In cooler areas, grow them in containers for easy relocation during winter.

For more details on soft and hardy succulents, check out our previous blog post, soft & hardy succulents.

Fertilizing

Feed your Kalanchoe thyrsiflora with a balanced, diluted fertilizer(such as 20-20-20) every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Don't fertilize them in winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Pruning

Although paddle succulents just need a little care, pruning occasionally helps keep them healthy. Remove dead or damaged leaves to improve airflow and prevent pests.

If you prefer a more vibrant and fuller one, pruning will promote the growth, prune leggy growth to encourage side shoots, which will create a fuller plant. 

Propagation

There are two easy ways to propagate Kalanchoe thyrsiflora: leaf or stem cuttings.

Leaf Propagation Steps:

1. Pick a healthy, mature leaf from the bottom of the plant.

2. Use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to gently cut the leaf from the mother plant.

3. Let the leaf dry for 3-5 days in a warm, shaded spot until the cut end forms a callous.

4. Place the calloused leaf on top of well-draining soil (don’t bury it). Since the leaves of the Kalanchoe thyrsiflora are large, inserting sticks on both sides of the leaves is a valid method to prevent the leaves from falling over.

5. Mist the soil lightly every few days. Just keep it slightly moist, but avoid soaking it.

6. In 2-4 weeks, roots will start to grow, followed by small plantlets.

For more details, come to our previous video Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora Propagation.

Stem Propagation Steps:

1. Cut a healthy stem about 3-4 inches long from the mother plant.

2. Allow the stem cutting to dry and wait for 3-5 days for a callous.

3. Plant the calloused stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil.

4. Water lightly until roots develop, usually within 2-3 weeks.

Repotting

When your Kalanchoe thyrsiflora outgrows its pot, it’s time to repot it—typically every 2-3 years. Repotting gives the plant fresh soil and space for new growth. Be sure to choose a planter pot with drainage holes to prevent water buildup.

Repotting Steps:

1. Gently remove the succulent plant from its old pot.

2. Brush off excess soil and trim any damaged roots.

3. Prepare the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil.

4. Place the succulent in the new pot and water lightly.

5. Water sparingly for the first week to help the plant settle into its new home.

Toxicity

Paddle succulents are lightly toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Ingesting the plant can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect your pet has eaten part of the plant, contact your vet immediately.

Common Issues and Solutions

● Overwatering: If the leaves turn yellow and feel mushy, your plant is getting too much water. Adjust your watering schedule right away.

● Pests: Mealybugs may appear when the plant stays too wet or after contact with infected plants. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations.

● Sunburn: Brown, dry patches on leaves mean the plant is getting too much direct sun. Move it to a shadier spot.

● Drooping Leaves: This can happen due to overwatering, underwatering, or not enough light. Check the moisture level in the soil and make sure the plant gets enough light.

● Root Rot: If leaves become soft and mushy, it could mean the roots are rotting from too much water. Remove the plant, trim any damaged roots, and replant it in fresh, dry soil.

Final Thoughts

Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is an eye-catching succulent that brings a bold look to any garden or indoor space. With just a bit of care, it will thrive and even produce offsets for easy propagation. Give it bright light, water only when needed, and enjoy watching the leaves glow with beautiful red edges!