Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’, also known as “Variegated Lavender Scallops”, is a unique cultivar of the species Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, native to Madagascar. The specific epithet fedtschenkoi honors botanist Boris Fedtschenko (1873-1947). It is widely sold as a house or garden plant and has established itself in the wild in some southern parts of the United States. With its thick and fleshy leaves that are a blue-green color and scalloped edges, it can be a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor collection. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’.
Description
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ is a low-growing, frost-tender perennial succulent which prefers dry, open ground. It grows to 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) tall as an untidy, low, rounded herb. The stems are round, smooth and lax with visible leaf scars, often bending and touching the ground where they produce roots and new plants. Leaves are fleshy, alternate, blue-green and oval or obovate with fine scalloped edges, the edges may turn pink or red under strong sunlight or drought conditions. The tubular flowers are in corymbs, often multi-layered in good conditions. Each flower has a short calyx edged with delta-shaped segments, which is shorter than its tubular corolla. The corolla is an orange/coral/apricot color, and the flowers are pendant.
The common name, “Lavender Scallops,” comes from the shape and color of its leaves. This cultivar is considered to be quite low maintenance and few pests are known to infest it, however, it may harbor mealy bugs or occasionally scale insects. Mine ALWAYS get attacked by snails and slugs after it rains.
Kalanchoe Care and Maintenance
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ prefers partial sun to partial shade. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn red or pink, but too little light will result in a leggy plant with fewer flowers.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant is not cold-hardy and prefers warm temperatures, it will die if exposed to frost.
Watering and Fertilizing
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ should be watered sparingly and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to make sure the soil has good drainage. Fertilize occasionally with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Propagation
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ can be propagated by taking leaf cuttings or plantlets and rooting them in soil.
Pests and Diseases
This cultivar may harbor mealy bugs or occasionally scale insects. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Special Kalanchoe Care Tips
It is important to keep an eye on the plantlets and remove them from the main plant if they are crowding the main plant or if you want to propagate them. Be aware that this plant is considered an invasive species in some regions and it is illegal to grow it in those regions.
Hardy Zones
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ is hardy in zone 10a (minimum 30°F | -1.1°C).
Toxicity
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi can be toxic to people and pets, it is important to keep it out of reach of children and animals.
Cultivation
Indoor Cultivation
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ can be grown indoors near a sunny window, but it is not tolerant of low light conditions.
Outdoor Cultivation
In cooler climates, it should be grown as an annual or container plant.
Common Uses in Landscaping and Gardening
This cultivar is well suited for growing in pots or as a groundcover in rock gardens or in areas with well-drained soil. It can also be used as a hanging plant or in a dish garden.
Kalanchoe Care Conclusion
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ is a unique and beautiful succulent that can be a great addition to any garden or indoor collection. Its low maintenance and easy propagation make it a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it is considered an invasive species in some regions, so it’s important to check the legality of growing it in your area before purchasing one. With the right care and attention, Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ will reward you with stunning flowers and beautiful foliage. Happy gardening!
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Lavender Scallops' Care Guide
Growing season:
Winter
Dormant season:
Summer
- Hardy to USDA Zone: 10a
- Size: Up to 19-20" tall
- Foliage: Blue/green
- Flower: Pink/Orange
- Propagation: Stem cuttings, leaves, seed, offsets, viviparous (plantlets form on the leaf margins)
- Light: Full sun, bright shade
- Water: Drench & Dry
- Soil: Gritty, mostly inorganic, quickly draining
- Origin: Central/Southern Madagascar
About Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Lavender Scallops'
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ is one of my favorite fillers in my garden because it reproduces so quickly and grows fast! I usually take stem cuttings in the spring and fall, but it also propagates viviparously meaning plantlets form around the leaf margins.
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ needs lots of water in the summer growing season to keep up with its rapid growth and only a little water in the winter when the leaves start to shrivel.
Keeping Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Lavender Scallops’ in a container will keep this succulent small if container gardening is more your thing.
Where to buy Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi 'Lavender Scallops'
Where to Buy Succulents Online
I receive a small commission when you purchase anything through my links.
General Information About Kalanchoe Care
Kalanchoe is a genus of tropical, succulent plants that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Madagascar and other parts of Africa, but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world. Common names include Flaming Katy, Paddle Plant, and Mexican Hat Plant. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular Kalanchoe species and varieties, as well as cover all the essential information you need to know to care for them properly.
Overview of Popular Kalanchoe Species and Varieties
Some of the most popular species and varieties include: Kalanchoe blossfeldiana: popular for its brightly colored flowers Kalanchoe beharensis: large, fuzzy leaves Kalanchoe tomentosa: small, furry leaves Kalanchoe pinnata: a species known for its medicinal properties
Kalanchoe Care and Maintenance
Kalanchoe is a relatively low maintenance plant, but there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for it.
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe plants prefer bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some direct sun.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe plants prefer warm temperatures and low humidity.
Watering and Fertilizing
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Fertilize occasionally with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
How to Propagate Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe can be propagated by taking leaf or stem cuttings and rooting them in a well-draining succulent soil mix.
Pests and Diseases
Kalanchoe is generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Growing Kalanchoe Indoors
Kalanchoe is a popular houseplant that can be grown in a sunny window or under artificial light.
Outdoor Cultivation in Warm Climates
Kalanchoe is hardy in zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in these regions. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual or container plant.
Common Uses in Landscaping and Gardening
Kalanchoe is often used as a colorful, low-maintenance groundcover or accent plant in rock gardens or succulent gardens.
What are some adaptations of Kalanchoe?
Here are some other adaptations of Kalanchoe:
• Thick, succulent leaves. Kalanchoe have thick, fleshy leaves that store water. This is an adaptation to arid environments where water is scarce. The succulent leaves allow Kalanchoe to survive periods of drought by using the stored water in its leaves.
• Covered in waxy coating. The leaves and stems of Kalanchoe are coated in a waxy substance that helps reduce water loss. This waxy coating is an adaptation to the hot, dry climates where Kalanchoe originate. It allows the plant to retain moisture that is vital for its survival.
• Closed stomata during the day. Kalanchoe have stomata that are closed during the hot daytime, which reduces water loss through transpiration. The stomata open at night when it is cooler, allowing the plants to take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. This adaptation helps Kalanchoe balance its need for photosynthesis and water conservation.
• Production of offsets. Many Kalanchoe varieties produce plant offsets or “pups” that can be used for propagation. This is a form of asexual reproduction that allows Kalanchoe to propagate and spread effectively. The ability to produce offsets helps the species adapt to a range of conditions and expand its populations. It also makes Kalanchoe popular as houseplants that can be easily propagated.
• Brightly colored flowers. Some Kalanchoe species produce vividly colored flowers. These conspicuous flowers attract pollinators like birds, insects, and bats. By attracting pollinators, the flowers aid in reproduction and the spread of Kalanchoe. The colorful blooms have also made certain Kalanchoe varieties popular flowering houseplants and garden plants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kalanchoe is a tropical, succulent plant that is well-suited for warm climates, and can be grown indoors as well. It has a variety of uses in gardening and landscaping. With proper care, Kalanchoe can be a beautiful addition to any garden or home.
