A charming succulent clothed in dense silvery felt, its plump leaves tipped with chocolate-brown notches like furry ears. A soft, tactile, easy-care novelty for bright windowsills.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 40 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Panda Plant
Kalanchoe tomentosa is a slow-growing succulent in the Crassulaceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage.
Where to grow Panda Plant
Panda Plant suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Panda Plant does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Panda Plant handles dry conditions well once established. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Panda Plant after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Panda Plant in the garden
Panda Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Panda Plant sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Panda Plant
Plant Sale lists Panda Plant as potted plants. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
