Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora – Paddle Plant – Flapjack Plant

Welcome, fellow plant enthusiasts! Ferb Vu here, and today we’re diving deep into the wonderful world of a truly striking succulent: the Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora. Often mistaken for its close cousin, Kalanchoe luciae, this plant is a showstopper with its paddle-like leaves and unique coloration. Over the years, I’ve received countless questions about caring for this beauty, so I thought I’d compile some of the most frequently asked questions right here for you.

What’s the Fuss About Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora?

Often dubbed the “Paddle Plant” or “Flapjack Plant,” Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora earns its nicknames from its distinctive, fleshy, round to ovate leaves. These leaves stack neatly, forming a rosette. While the plant itself boasts an attractive blue-green hue, the real magic happens when it’s exposed to ample sunlight. The leaf margins then blush a vibrant red, creating a stunning contrast. It’s a succulent, so it’s naturally drought-tolerant and relatively low-maintenance, making it a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned plant parents.

Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora vs. Luciae

This is perhaps the most common question I get! It’s easy to confuse Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora with Kalanchoe luciae, and for good reason—they look very similar. However, there are key differences once you know what to look for.

The primary distinction lies in their flowers. Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora produces upright, yellow-green flowers that often have a somewhat unpleasant, musky scent. In contrast, Kalanchoe luciae (often called the “Paddle Plant” or “Flapjack Plant” as well) has greenish-white to pale yellow, pendulous flowers that are typically odorless.

Another subtle difference is in the leaves. While both develop red margins in sun, the leaves of Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora are generally more rounded and less elongated than those of Kalanchoe luciae. However, this can vary with growing conditions, so the flowers are the most reliable identifier. When purchasing, if the plant isn’t in bloom, ask the nursery staff for clarification or look for labels indicating the specific species.

How to Propagate Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora

Propagating Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora is a rewarding experience and relatively straightforward. My preferred method is using offsets.

Offset Propagation: Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora often produces small “pups” or offsets at its base.

1. Separate: Gently twist or cut the offsets away from the mother plant when they are a few inches tall and have some roots of their own. Use a clean, sharp knife for cutting to prevent disease.
2. Callus: Allow the offset to “callus over” for a day or two in a dry, shaded area. This helps prevent rot when planted.
3. Plant: Plant the callused offset in well-draining succulent soil. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand works well.
4. Watering: Don’t water immediately. Wait a few days, then water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the quickest way to kill a succulent.
5. Light: Place the newly potted offset in bright, indirect light. Gradually introduce it to more direct sunlight as it establishes.

Leaf Propagation (Less Common but Possible): While not as reliable as offset propagation for Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora, you can try propagating from a single leaf.

1. Harvest: Carefully remove a healthy, mature leaf from the mother plant.
2. Callus: Allow the leaf to callus for several days.
3. Lay on Soil: Lay the callused leaf flat on top of well-draining succulent soil.
4. Mist: Lightly mist the soil every few days, keeping it slightly damp but not soggy. Roots and a tiny new plant should eventually emerge from the base of the leaf. This method requires more patience and isn’t always successful.

General Care for Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora

• Light: Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. This is crucial for developing those beautiful red margins. If your plant isn’t blushing, it’s likely not getting enough light. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent scorching.
• Watering: Like all succulents, Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora is susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. In summer, this might be once every 2-4 weeks; in winter, even less frequently. When in doubt, err on the side of underwatering.
• Soil: Well-draining soil is non-negotiable. Use a cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by amending regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage.
• Container: A pot with drainage holes is essential. Terracotta pots are excellent as they allow the soil to breathe and dry out faster.
• Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors when temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
• Fertilizing: Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora doesn’t require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally, Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora is quite resistant to pests. However, mealybugs or aphids can occasionally be an issue. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The most common “disease” is root rot, caused by overwatering.

Why Are My Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora Leaves Drooping?

Drooping leaves usually signal one of two things:

1. Underwatering: If the leaves feel soft, shriveled, and appear somewhat deflated, your plant is thirsty. Give it a good, thorough soak until water drains from the bottom.
2. Overwatering/Root Rot: Paradoxically, overwatering can also cause drooping, but the leaves will likely be mushy, yellowing, or even black. This indicates root rot. Immediately unpot the plant, inspect the roots, and remove any mushy, black roots. Repot in fresh, dry soil and adjust your watering schedule.

My Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora Isn’t Red. Why?

Lack of vibrant red coloration on the leaf margins is almost always due to insufficient sunlight. To encourage the beautiful blushing, move your plant to a location where it receives more direct sun exposure. Gradual exposure is key to prevent sunburn. South-facing windows indoors or a sunny outdoor spot are ideal.