Sageleaf Kalanchoe
bryophyllum fedtschenkoi
Also known as: ["Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi","Lavender Scallops"]
Overview
A succulent plant with striking lavender-gray leaves and occasional bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Bryophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in frost-free areas
- 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 coarse sand.
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 one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun; adjust for intensity in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus or succulent mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid heavy garden soil, and let soil dry between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes, protect from frost, maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth, dilute to prevent burn, and flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; leaf cuttings are particularly effective due to plantlets forming along edges.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaves or stems, let cuttings callus for 1–2 days, plant in medium, keep moist, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots form in 2–4 weeks; plantlets can be potted separately after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, mature leaves for best results; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; trim spent flower stalks to redirect energy to foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut above nodes, remove dead/damaged parts, shape for airflow, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly, place in proper light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase in summer during active growth.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened stems.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, and reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
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
ToxicBryophyllum fedtschenkoi is toxic to cats due to bufadienolide compounds, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential cardiac complications. The physiological impact can be serious, particularly in smaller animals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicBryophyllum fedtschenkoi is toxic to dogs due to bufadienolide compounds, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential cardiac issues. The physiological impact can be significant, especially with larger ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBryophyllum fedtschenkoi contains bufadienolide compounds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and cardiac effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
