Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, also known as the paddle plant or flapjack plant, is a succulent native to South Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. The leaves of Kalanchoe thyrsiflora are thick and fleshy, forming a rosette shape that can grow up to 60 cm in diameter. The grey-green leaves have red or purple margins that become more pronounced with exposure to sunlight. During the summer months, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora produces tall stalks of small yellow-green flowers which attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This succulent prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions, though it should be watered sparingly during the winter months. Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in warm climates where temperatures do not drop below freezing. It is easy to propagate from stem cuttings or by removing offsets from the base of mature plants. Although Kalanchoe thyrsiflora has no known medicinal uses, it has been traditionally utilized for its anti-inflammatory properties by indigenous people in South Africa. However, it should be noted that this succulent contains toxic compounds which may cause skin irritation or digestive issues if ingested by humans or pets in large quantities.
Paddle plant has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes susceptible to disease when humidity is high and is prone to root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Paddle plant is drought tolerant but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Paddle plant is best suited to people with some growing experience, though it can be difficult to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for those who can dedicate time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora.
Light
Originating from dry regions, the Paddle plant does best in full sun, as its natural habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It will also tolerate partial sun, offering some flexibility in its growth.
Water
The paddle plant comes from arid regions and is well-suited to dry climates, making it drought-tolerant. It only needs to be watered about once every three weeks. Often grown indoors, this evergreen plant maintains its leaves throughout the year and doesn't require frequent watering.
Temperature
Although the Paddle plant can tolerate some heat, it primarily does best and grows during the cooler months, entering dormancy in summer. In very hot summer conditions, provide shade to prevent leaves from being scorched by strong sunlight. Watering should be cut back or stopped during the hottest period to avoid root rot. Winter and spring are when the Paddle plant grows vigorously. If temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Paddle plant, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer when it is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pruning
To maintain the shape of a paddle plant, prune any excess or dense branches in the spring and autumn. Use tools like scissors and sulfur powder for this task. For propagation, cut sturdy stems that have 5-6 leaves. Treat the wound on the stem, and once it has healed, plant it in slightly moist soil.
Pot & Repot
When repotting a Paddle plant, choose a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, dust off excess soil, and set it in the new pot at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering so any root damage can heal. Repot in spring or fall, and place it in a brightly lit area.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial, Biennial
- Genus
- Kalanchoe
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 25 cm
- Mature Spread
- 25 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, White, Red, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 1.02 cm
- Bloom Time
- Winter, Early spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Spring, Early summer
- Native Area
- South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana
Other names.
Reader questions.
What should I do if I give my Paddle plant too much or too little water?
Paddle plants are typically able to withstand long periods without water, so it's not common to find them suffering from underwatering. However, if you accidentally forget to water your Paddle plant for a month or more, you may notice that it appears thirsty or damaged due to lack of watering. Signs of underwatering include a lackluster and wrinkled appearance, complete drying up, browning and crisping, or leaves falling off. To remedy underwatering, give the plant plenty of water by fully submerging the pot for 5-10 minutes. Once you feel moisture on the soil surface, the watering is sufficient. Conversely, overwatering is dangerous for Paddle plants and can be fatal if not addressed. Excessive moisture leads to root rot, hindering nutrient and water absorption. This occurs when fungi and bacteria thrive in wet conditions and feed on the roots. Symptoms of overwatering include yellow, swollen, and translucent organs that may burst from being overfilled with water. If left untreated, the plant may turn brown or black and easily fall off. Check the soil to confirm overwatering as the cause, as other issues can produce similar symptoms. Saving an overwatered plant is challenging but possible if caught early. Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots and soil. Remove wet soil and rinse the roots in room-temperature water to eliminate any lurking fungus and assess root health. Dark brown or black, soft, mushy, or slimy roots indicate root rot. If most of the roots are affected, it may not be salvageable. However, if only a portion is affected, there is hope. Use sterilized tools to remove unhealthy roots and dip the remaining firm, pale roots in fungicide. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. While this method doesn't always save a succulent with root rot, it often leads to a full recovery with new growth in the next growing season.
Why should I put fertilizer on my Paddle plant?
Adding nutrients to the growing medium by fertilizing the Paddle plant is important for healthy growth, even though it already stores water and nutrients. Applying plant food during the growing season helps support this growth and can encourage mature specimens to produce blooms.
How much sunlight does the Paddle plant need to grow?
The Paddle plant thrives with at least 6 hours of sun daily, but more is preferred. The actual minimum hours needed may differ based on sunlight intensity and other environmental conditions. However, it's uncommon for the Paddle plant to receive excessive sunlight. In fact, it can handle up to 14 hours of sun per day without any issues.
What temperature is best for your Paddle plant?
The Paddle plant is best kept in a specific temperature range of 75-90℉ (25-32℃). It is especially important to avoid temperatures below 75℉ (25℃) during the early winter season. If the temperature drops too low, it is recommended to bring the plant indoors for added protection. Although the Paddle plant can tolerate some extreme temperatures, it is not ideal to expose it to temperatures as low as 50℉ (15℃). If winter conditions are expected to be harsh, it is advisable to bring the plant inside.
How often should I water my Paddle plant? → How frequently should I give water to my Paddle plant?
To determine how often to water your Paddle plant, the best approach is to check the soil and only water when it is completely dry. You can either stick your finger in the pot or use a moisture meter to check the soil beneath the surface. If the soil feels even slightly moist, wait a few days and check again. In the summer, most people will need to water their Paddle plant approximately every two weeks, while in the winter, watering once a month is usually sufficient. However, it's important to consider various factors that may affect the watering frequency. The section below provides a list of these considerations to assist you in determining how often to water your plant.
When should I fertilize my Paddle plant?
Paddle plants do best with a gentle touch of fertilizer, only needing it once or twice a year. To ensure the best results, fertilize your Paddle plant in the spring and autumn, avoiding the dormant seasons of winter and summer. When repotting your plant, be cautious with the amount of fertilizer you use and consider waiting a couple of months before applying any at all.
What kind of sunlight does the Paddle plant need?
The paddle plant is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright sunlight. It can do well with direct light or bright indirect sun. While some varieties can tolerate partial sun, they generally prefer more sunlight.
How do I change the temperature for my Paddle plant as it grows?
The Paddle plant goes through different growing phases. In the first phase, the dormant seed sprouts and becomes a seedling. To germinate, the dormant seeds require specific environmental conditions, with a temperature of 75-90℉ (25-32℃) being ideal. During the summer, when temperatures are around 85℉ (30℃), is the best time to encourage vigorous growth. To ensure your Paddle plant gets enough sunlight during the hot summer months, you can move it from indoors to a spot with plenty of sunlight.
What things should I think about when I water my Paddle plant?
To properly water your Paddle plant, there are a few environmental factors to consider. These include the size of the container, the type of soil, the temperature, and the humidity. The size of the container and the type of soil will determine how often and how much water to use. Make sure to choose a container with good drainage so that excess water can escape. Smaller containers hold less moisture and will need to be watered more frequently, while larger pots retain moisture and require less frequent watering. Avoid using an oversized pot, as this can lead to overwatering. When repotting, choose a container that is just one size larger than the current one, and opt for a shallow container since Paddle plants have shallow root systems. In terms of temperature and season, Paddle plants need less water in the winter when growth slows down. Cooler air reduces water evaporation, resulting in wetter soil for longer periods. Additionally, the general climate of your location also plays a role. Humid areas with ample rainfall will require less frequent watering compared to dry, arid climates. Keep in mind that conditions can vary even within the same geographical location due to seasonal changes and indoor heating or air conditioning. If you have planted your Paddle plant in the ground, it generally won't need additional water once its root system is established, relying on natural precipitation and dew. However, in prolonged dry spells, occasional watering might be necessary. For areas where Paddle plants are grown in containers, they can be moved outdoors during the appropriate seasons and brought back indoors when temperatures drop. Keep in mind that potted Paddle plants kept outside will typically require more water due to increased sun exposure, even on shaded porches.
When is the best time to not fertilize my Paddle plant?
Paddle plant, like most plants, goes through a dormancy period. During this time, it is best to avoid applying fertilizer. In both summer and winter, the plant stops growing, so it is important to refrain from fertilizing. Additionally, after repotting in the spring, it is recommended to wait a few months before resuming fertilizer applications.
Do I need to shield the Paddle plant from the sun?
The Paddle plant is typically found in extremely hot and sunny areas, so it doesn't require protection from the sun. However, if you plan to move your Paddle plant to a location with intense sunlight, it's important to take it slow. Plants need time to adjust to new environments, so start by gradually exposing your plant to a couple of hours of sunlight each day and gradually increase the duration. Once your Paddle plant has adapted, it should thrive in full sun without any need for extra protection.
How do I make sure my Paddle plant stays warm during cold seasons?
To protect your Paddle plant from the harsh winter conditions, it's a good idea to bring it indoors. Some people choose to purchase grow lights to ensure the plant gets enough sunlight, but if your home isn't very dark, you don't necessarily need these lights. Just make sure to place your plants where they will receive the most sunlight possible. This should be enough to keep the Paddle plant thriving during the winter. If you have multiple Paddle plants, rotate them so that they all get sufficient sunlight. However, if you live in northern areas with very cold weather, be cautious about placing your Paddle plant too close to the window. The extreme cold can damage the plant.
