Paddle Plant
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora
A stunning architectural succulent with large, flat, paddle-shaped leaves that stack in perfect rosettes and develop gorgeous red edges in bright light. This South African beauty is prized for its dramatic foliage and impressive size, making it a perfect statement plant for modern gardens. The thick, waxy leaves have a powdery coating that adds to its sculptural appeal.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Zones
9–12
USDA hardiness
Height
0-4 feet
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist, Occasionally Dry, Very Dry. Height: 0 ft. 6 in. - 4 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 1 ft. 0 in. - 2 ft. 0 in.. Growth rate: Slow. Maintenance: Low, Medium. Propagation: Division, Leaf Cutting, Stem Cutting.
Harvesting
Bloom time: Summer
History & Origin
Origin: Africa, Asia
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Rabbits
- +Attracts: Attractive Flowers, Attracts Pollinators, Colorful, Easy to Grow
- +Wildlife value: Attracts bees and butterflies.
- +Low maintenance
Considerations
- -Toxic (Flowers, Fruits, Leaves, Roots, Sap/Juice, Seeds, Stems): Medium severity
- -Causes contact dermatitis
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Sedum varieties
Shares drought tolerance and creates diverse succulent ground cover
Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)
Similar water and light requirements, creates attractive textural contrast
Jade Plant
Compatible watering schedule and both thrive in well-draining soil
Lavender
Both prefer dry conditions and lavender repels pests that may damage succulents
Rosemary
Thrives in similar well-draining soil and deters harmful insects
Agave
Similar water requirements and creates striking architectural plant combinations
Echeveria
Compatible care needs and complementary rosette forms create visual interest
Aloe Vera
Both are succulents with similar light and minimal water requirements
Keep Apart
Impatiens
Requires frequent watering which can cause root rot in paddle plants
Hostas
Needs consistent moisture and shade, opposite of paddle plant requirements
Ferns
High humidity and moisture needs conflict with succulent's dry environment preferences
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Good disease resistance with proper care
Common Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects
Diseases
Root rot, powdery mildew in humid conditions