Paddle Plant (Flapjack Succulent)

This gorgeous succulent is native to South Africa. It’s easy to propagate, making it suitable even for novice gardeners. Also known as paddle plant, flapjack succulent, red pancakes, Kalanchoe luciaeand desert cabbage, this evergreen plant is famous for its paddle or dog-ear-shaped leaves.
The Kalanchoe luciae plant has green, rubbery leaves that are even hairy! Keep the flapjack plant in the cool of winter and with plenty of light, and the tips of its green leaves will turn red. Flapjack succulents are low-care plants that prefer tropical environments. This plant thrives in hot, dry climates and full sunlight. Use well-draining soil that doesn’t absorb moisture. The Paddle Plot is small in size, with leaves that are flat, round, and hanging.
Flapjack succulent plants are toxicso humans and pets should avoid them.

Overview for Paddle Plant Succulent :

Scientific name: Kalanchoe luciae
Common name: Flapjack succulent, paddle plant, dessert cabbage, Kalanchoe luciae, red pancakes.
Plant type: Succulent
Sun requires: Full Sunlight.
Soil: Well-drained, Loamy, sandy soil
Soil pH: 6.0 and 7.5
Hardiness Zone: 9-11

Growing Tips for a Paddle Plant Succulent

Light and Location:

Paddle plant (Flapjack Succulent) is native to South Africa and loves full sunbut also thrives in partial sun. But you should protect it from direct hot sun; otherwise, there is a possibility of the leaves getting scorched.

Soil and Pot :

The Kalanchoe luciae plant is a succulent plant, so it requires suitable soil (good sandy soil and well-drained soil) for the plant. To prepare the soil, see our post How to make the best potting soil.
Succulents prefer well-drained soil, so using sandy soil that doesn’t retain moisture is ideal for their growth. Use cactus soil available in commercial markets or a soil mix prepared at home. Before planting your paddle plant in a pot, ensure it has proper drainage.

Humidity:

Flapjacks are succulents and thrive in 40-50% humidity. You can use a hygrometer to determine humidity.

Temperature:

Paddle plants thrive in dry, warm regions, but they are not very cold-tolerant. A minimum temperature of 20ºF is ideal. It is advisable to keep these plants indoors when the temperature is low.

Caring for a Calanchoe Lucia

Watering:

Calanchoe Lucia should not be watered frequently. Water only when the soil surface is completely dry. Morning is the best time to water. In winter, water once in 3, 4 days and reduce the amount of water. Flapjack succulents are drought-tolerant, so watering can be moderate. Too much water can rot the plant’s roots, so avoid watering in the evening.

Fertilizer:

Feed these plants with a balanced, liquid fertilizer during the growing season in spring and summer. It is ideal to fertilize the plant once in three months; avoid excessive fertilization as it can be harmful.

Prunning:

Paddle plants are small plants, so pruning isn’t necessary. Simply remove dead, withered leaves and faded flowers. Also, remove any dead stems. To give the plant shape, you can lightly prune it with scissors.

Repotting:

Repot your succulent at the end of summer or as needed. Ensure proper drainage is maintained to protect the plant from excess moisture. Large-sized plants are not suitable for this, because these plants grow better in less space.

Pests and Diseases:

Kalanchoe Luciae plants are generally not prone to any diseases or pests. It is affected by some pests (spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs), but you can get rid of them by using neem oil or any insecticide spray. Fungus can affect this plant, but you can avoid it by watering less, maintaining good drainage, and good air circulation.

Propagation:

You can grow it from cuttings from Calanchoe Lucia plants. Cut a disease-free stem with a few leaves and let it dry for a while, then plant it in succulent soil or cocopeat and spray it lightly with water. Roots will sprout within a few weeks, so transplant it into a suitable pot. Wear gloves when handling the plant, as the sap from its stems and leaves can cause skin irritation.

Container:

A clay or plastic pot with holes for proper drainage is a good choice. Keep in mind that the pot size should not be too large.

Happy gardening!

Read also:
How to Grow Hens and Chicks Plant. 5 best indoor succulents for Room Décor. Growing succulents indoors. Cuban Oregano (mexican mint) growing and Care Guide. Haworthia growing conditions. Silver Squill ).

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