Lavender Scallops
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi
Fedtschenkoi
About this plant
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, commonly called Lavender Scallops, is a succulent with thick, scalloped leaves that have a soft lavender-green color and a powdery coating. It produces small bell-shaped flowers and is popular as a decorative plant for indoors and gardens. It is drought-tolerant and easy to grow, making it a favorite for succulent collections.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Kalanchoe
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Madagascar
- Distribution
- Native to Madagascar; widely cultivated in warm climates worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or cactus potting mix
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi is a tough succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry between waterings. It is low-maintenance and suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Offsets
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Attractive scalloped leaves with a powdery lavender tint and small tubular flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause stomach upset. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi may cause mild skin irritation in some people if touched, especially those with sensitive skin. It does not produce airborne pollen that typically triggers allergies. To avoid reactions, wear gloves when handling the plant and wash hands afterward.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and leaf drop. Insufficient light may cause leggy growth. Occasionally, pests like mealybugs can appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental succulent for indoor decoration and outdoor rock gardens. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping.
Notes
Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh soil. Protect from frost and cold drafts.