Copper Spoons
kalanchoe orgyalis
Also known as: ["Copper Spoons","Rutty"]
Overview
A succulent plant with distinctive coppery-brown, felt-like leaves that change color with age and light exposure.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe orgyalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- 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 cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or 4–6 hours of direct morning sun; adjust to avoid scorching in intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days in spring and summer, every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
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 orgyalis.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; only repot if necessary to avoid stress.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly only when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; mix in organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; susceptible to frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat in very cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicKalanchoe orgyalis is toxic to cats, primarily due to cardiac glycosides. These substances can lead to serious cardiac problems, electrolyte disturbances, and gastrointestinal upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicKalanchoe orgyalis is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiac glycosides. These compounds can cause severe cardiac issues, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal distress in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe orgyalis contains cardiac glycosides, which can have mild toxic effects on humans if ingested. These compounds can disrupt normal heart function and electrolyte balance, leading to physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe orgyalis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe orgyalis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Kalanchoe orgyalis turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in spring an |
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