Panda Plant, Pussy Ears
kalanchoe tomentosa
Also known as: ["Panda Plant","Cushion Plant","Velvet Leaf Kalanchoe"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to Madagascar, recognized for its fuzzy, silvery-gray leaves with brownish-red margins.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe tomentosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place near east-facing windows for ideal light; shield from intense afternoon sun outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; tolerates mild frost but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain stable warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective for Kalanchoe tomentosa.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and indirect light for rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks and establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch or snip off dead leaves; trim stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves; shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; maintain a compact form.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape for aesthetics; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to every 3–4 weeks. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe tomentosa. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac problems and other systemic effects, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, Kalanchoe tomentosa can cause significant toxicity due to its cardiac glycoside content. These compounds can affect the heart, leading to serious health issues if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe tomentosa contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally not severe in humans but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe tomentosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Kalanchoe tomentosa flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, star-shaped, pale yellow or white flowers in spring or summer.
Q: Is Kalanchoe tomentosa toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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