How to Grow and Care for Flapjacks Plant

The Flapjack Plant, known scientifically as Kalanchoe luciae, is a succulent popular for its unique structure. It is also called the Paddle Plant due to its flat, fleshy leaves that grow in a rosette formation. Originally from South Africa, this plant forms a compact, ground-hugging shape with stacked, grey-green leaves. Its distinct appearance makes it a frequent choice for container gardens and dry, xeriscape landscapes.

Flapjack Plant Care

Light

Proper light exposure is a primary factor in the appearance of a Flapjack Plant. This succulent requires at least six hours of bright, direct sunlight each day to develop its signature red leaf edges. When grown indoors, a south-facing window is an ideal location. Plants that do not receive enough light will have greener leaves and may stretch as they reach for a light source. Conversely, too much intense sun can cause the leaves to turn yellow or orange.

Soil

This plant demands very well-draining soil to prevent moisture from accumulating around its roots. A commercial potting mix formulated for cacti and succulents is a suitable choice for container growing. To improve drainage, materials like perlite, pumice, or sand can be added to a standard potting mix. For outdoor planting, the soil should be loamy and sandy to ensure water does not remain stagnant.

Water

The most effective watering technique is the “soak and dry” method. The soil is watered thoroughly and then allowed to dry out completely before the next watering. During the winter months, the plant enters a dormant period and its water needs are minimal. When watering, apply water directly to the soil and avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can lead to damage. Using room-temperature water can also prevent shocking the plant’s root system.

Temperature and Humidity

Kalanchoe luciae thrives in warm and dry conditions. It prefers temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 29 degrees Celsius). This succulent is not frost-tolerant and can be damaged by temperatures that drop below freezing. In regions with cold winters, it is best grown in containers that can be moved indoors. Average household humidity levels are sufficient, as the plant is not suited to very humid climates.

Fertilizer

The Flapjack Plant is a light feeder and does not have high fertilizer requirements. Provide a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the spring and summer growing season. A fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents, applied at half-strength, is a good option. Do not fertilize the plant during the fall and winter when its growth slows down.

Propagating the Flapjack Plant

One common way to propagate is by using offsets, which are small “pups” that form at the base of the mature plant. These can be carefully separated from the main stem using a clean, sharp knife. After separation, allow the offsets to sit for a few days so the cut end can form a callus, which helps prevent rot.

Once the offset has callused, it can be placed on top of well-draining soil. The soil should be kept lightly moist until roots begin to form and new growth appears. Another method is to propagate from leaf cuttings. A healthy leaf can be gently twisted from the stem, allowed to callus, and then placed on soil. This technique can be less consistently successful than using offsets.

Common Issues and Solutions

One frequent issue is etiolation, or “leggy” growth. This occurs when the plant does not receive enough light, causing it to stretch and lose its vibrant red coloring. The solution is to move the plant to a location where it can receive more direct sunlight.

Mushy or yellowing leaves are a clear indicator of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If these signs appear, allow the soil to dry out completely. In more severe cases, the plant may need to be removed from its pot so the roots can be inspected and allowed to air dry before repotting in fresh, dry soil.

Flapjack Plants can also be affected by pests such as mealybugs. These small, white, cottony insects often hide in the crevices where leaves join the stem. They can be removed by dabbing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Understanding Flapjack Plant Flowering

The flowering of a Kalanchoe luciae is a unique event because the plant is monocarpic. This term means that the plant flowers only once and then the main “mother” plant that produced the flower will die. This is a natural part of its life cycle, not a sign of a problem.

The process begins when the plant sends up a tall flower stalk from the center of the rosette, which can reach up to six feet in height. This stalk produces clusters of pale yellow, urn-shaped flowers. While the main plant dies after flowering, it ensures its continuation by producing numerous offsets at its base before blooming. These pups can then be propagated to grow new plants.