Members only

Unlock the Plant Library

Care guides for 220+ plants: light, water, soil, pets, seasonal calendars and troubleshooting. Enter the password from your welcome email to get in.

Plant Profiles / Paddle plant
SucculentsBest for potsOutdoorDrought tolerantToxic to pets

Paddle plant

Kalanchoe luciae · Flapjacks
Stacked, round paddle leaves that blush red in sun. A striking succulent for pots.
Full sunLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
Very easyCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun for red edges.

Water

Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Let dry.

Humidity

Low
LowHigh
Dry.

Temperature

5–35°C (41–95°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.

Growth

Moderate
SlowFast
30–60 cm.

Soil

Cactus mix
LeanRich
Gritty.

Fertiliser

Rarely
RarelyOften
Light.

Pet safety

Toxic
SafeToxic
Cardiac glycosides.

About this plant

Native to southern Africa. Rosette dies after flowering but leaves offsets.

Best spots

Sunny balconies and modern pots.

Plant facts

Botanical nameKalanchoe luciae
FamilyCrassulaceae
OriginSouthern Africa
Plant typeSucculent
Mature size30–60 cm
Growth rateModerate
FoliageRound paddles
ToxicityToxic to pets
PropagationOffsets

Seasonal care calendar

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Flowering
Active growthFlowering

Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.

Troubleshooting

GreenShade.
RotWet.
DyingAfter flowering.
FrostProtect.
MealybugsAlcohol.

Common questions

Red colour?

Sun.

Toxic?

Yes.

Flower?

Then offsets.

Pots?

Yes.