The succulent Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Robbie’ is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant prized for its unique, ornamental foliage. This cultivar is sought after by enthusiasts looking for an attractive succulent that adds color to an indoor setting. Its distinctive appearance and ease of care have contributed to its widespread appeal.
Identifying the ‘Robbie’ Kalanchoe
The ‘Robbie’ cultivar is a form of Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, a perennial succulent native to Madagascar. It has an untidy, low, and rounded growth habit, typically reaching 12 to 18 inches in height. Its most striking feature is its fleshy, blue-green leaves, which are obovate with fine, scalloped margins.
When exposed to strong sunlight or environmental stress, the leaf edges develop a vibrant pink or reddish-purple coloration. This natural response enhances the plant’s aesthetic appeal, leading to the species’ common name, “Lavender Scallops.” The stems are round and lax, often bending to the ground where they can root and produce new plants.
Daily Maintenance and Environment
Providing the correct environment begins with light requirements. This succulent thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct morning sun. Optimal light intensity is generally achieved by placing it in a south-facing window during winter or an east-facing window year-round. Too much harsh, direct sun can cause the leaves to burn.
Watering requires the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Since the fleshy leaves store water, the plant is highly drought-tolerant, and overwatering poses a greater risk than underwatering. Watering frequency should be reduced significantly during the winter months when growth slows.
The ideal temperature range is consistent with typical indoor household conditions, as this plant is frost-tender. A well-draining soil mixture is necessary, such as a commercially available cactus or succulent mix containing components like perlite or sand to enhance drainage. Maintenance is minimal, involving the removal of dead or damaged foliage and occasionally checking for common houseplant pests like mealybugs or scale insects.
Simple Methods for Propagation
Propagating the ‘Robbie’ Kalanchoe is simple, allowing owners to create new plants using stem or leaf cuttings. These methods utilize the plant’s natural tendency to regenerate. Stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy shoot, cut just below a leaf node, and be a few inches long.
The cut end of the stem or the entire leaf must sit in a dry, shady spot for several days until a protective callus forms over the wound. This callousing prevents the cutting from absorbing too much water and rotting when planted. Once the callus is firm, plant the cutting directly into a pot containing a well-draining succulent mix, keeping the soil slightly moist until roots develop.
Toxicity Concerns for Households
All Kalanchoe species contain compounds that are toxic if ingested. The plant’s toxicity is primarily attributed to bufadienolides, a type of cardiac glycoside. These toxins can cause health issues for household pets, particularly cats and dogs.
If a pet consumes any part of the plant, bufadienolides can cause gastrointestinal upset, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. Ingesting larger amounts can affect the heart, causing severe symptoms like changes in heart rate or rhythm, weakness, and collapse. Owners should place the plant out of reach of pets and seek immediate veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.