Flapjack Succulent
The Flapjack Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe luciae) is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a low-maintenance perennial that produces attractive, fleshy leaves in a rosette pattern. It quickly grows with bright red leaf tips and makes an excellent houseplant. Over time, Flapjack Kalanchoe will produce clusters of orange-yellow flower stalks from the center of the rosette. Flapjack Kalanchoe require a sunny location and a well-draining soil.If given the right amount of light and fertilizer, they’ll quickly grow into mature houseplants.
Flapjack Kalanchoe require a well-drained cactus soil and occasional deep waterings. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings in the winter. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and cause the plant to die. Water the plant deeply once or twice a month, depending on the plant’s environment and season. It is best to water in the morning so the plant has a full day to absorb the water.
Flapjack Kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect sun. It may benefit from a few hours of direct sunlight each day to keep the leaves bright and colorful. During the winter, it will need less light than during the summer. If the light is too low, the leaves may become elongated and stretch out, weakening the plant. Escapes from direct sun are necessary in summer months, as it can burn the rosette's leaves.
Flapjack Kalanchoe is used to warmer climates and should be kept in temperatures between 70ºF and 80ºF (21ºC and 27ºC). Keep Flapjack Kalanchoe away from cold drafts, air conditioning, and heating sources, or temperatures will go outside of its comfort zone.
Flapjack Kalanchoe prefers moderate humidity levels but will tolerate dry air. It prefers temperatures that are warmer and more humid, and can benefit from misting with a light spray. If the air is too dry, you can raise the humidity levels with a humidifier or pebble tray.
Flapjack Kalanchoe prefers a potting mix that is specially formulated for cactus and succulent plants. Be sure to choose a well-draining potting mix and avoid soil that is too hard or too moist. A soil-less potting mix is ideal because it helps ensure that the soil drains quickly and does not stay too wet for too long.
Flapjack Kalanchoe will need to be fertilized every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced aquatic fertilizer like 10-10-10. Fertilize at half strength to avoid over-fertilizing and burning the leaves. Make sure not to fertilize during the winter when the plant is dormant.
Flapjack Kalanchoe is susceptible to some common houseplant pests like aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on it or sucking out the plant’s sap. To get rid of these pests, you can spray the plant with a mild soap solution or insecticidal soap. For more stubborn pests, you may need to use more powerful treatments such as neem oil or alcohol. Be sure to test any solution on a small part of the plant before using it on the whole plant.
Flapjack Kalanchoe may need to be repotted annually. It should be repotted in the springtime, when the weather is stable and the days are getting longer. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the soil is not too moist or too dry. If the plant starts to look root-bound, then it is time to repot into a larger pot.
Flapjack Kalanchoe should be pruned to keep it healthy and promote growth. Pinch or trim off dead or dying leaves and foliage to improve plant shape. Pruning is also important to remove any pests which may be lurking in the plant. Be sure to use sharp, sterile pruning shears to prevent plant disease.
Mulching is not necessary for Flapjack Kalanchoe, but a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Use a layer of rocks mulch over the soil to help hold in moisture. Be sure the mulch does not touch the stems or leaves of the plant.
Flapjack Kalanchoe is easily propagated by stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting of about 4–5 inches and remove the leaves from the lower third of the stem. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and then plant in a well-draining potting mix. Give the cutting flower bright, indirect light and water when the soil is dry to the touch. It should root after a few weeks.
The rosette shape of Flapjack Kalanchoe makes it naturally low-maintenance, but it may require staking or pruning. Use a stake to lattice the stems for support, or use a bamboo stick to create a lattice for the stems to grow onto.
Flapjack Kalanchoe does not require a rest period. It should be kept in a bright, warm space, and watered regularly. As with other succulents, it may benefit from a few cooler months each year to promote vigorous growth.
Flapjack Kalanchoe is non-toxic to pets.
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