Kalanchoe thyrsiflora variegata – Variegated Flapjack Plant

Standing out in any houseplant collection, this succulent's leaves are stunning with their bright colour and blend of variegation. The silver-green of these leaves spreads from the centre of the rosette of foliage, meeting a creamy ivory variegation as it nears the edge. The green almost resembles paint strokes as it crosses the leaves. And all of this is tinted with bright pink colour around the edges, a colour that is more vibrant when it has had brighter light. This bold colour on the architectural shape of these round leaves help it stand out amongst other succulents and in any houseplant collection.

Scientific Name
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora 'Variegata' (plant where the parts that fall grow, with flowers which resemble a pinecone staff, variegated cultivar)

Thi splant's scientific name was first published in 1862.

Common Name(s)
Variegated Paddle Plant, Variegated Flapjacks, Variegated Dog Tongue, Variegated Desert Cabbage, Red Pancakes, Red Lips Kalanchoe, White Lady

Origin
Native to arid areas in South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini

Light
Your Kalanchoe will thrive in bright, indirect light with a couple of hours of direct sun each day. The red variegation will be more intense with more light, so this plant will grow best and look best near a south- or west-facing window.

Water
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water deeply and let excess water drain away. Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters dormancy. Make sure the soil is not sat soggy as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity
Prefers low to moderate humidity. Avoid overly damp environments, as high humidity can lead to fungal issues. It adapts well to average household humidity.

Soil
Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Added sand, grit or perlite in these mixes improves aeration and drainage. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.

Food
Feed every 4-6 waters during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted cactus and succulent fertiliser. Avoid fertilising in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is between 15-25°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Rotate the plant occasionally to encourage even growth and prevent leaning towards the light source. For more vibrant variegation, ensure the plant receives ample bright light. Remove any offsets around the base to propagate or control its size.

Extras
When mature, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora 'Variegata' may produce tall flower stalks with small, tubular yellow blooms. The plant is monocarpic, meaning it will die after flowering, but it is easy to propagate from cuttings, so it's sensible to do this to keep your plant going if you let it flower.