Introducing the Variegated Paddle Plant - also known as Kalanchoe luciae 'Fantastic,' the vibrant variety of the Kalanchoe genus. Some people describe its variegated leaves as paddle-like, with yellow edges that are almost round in shape and concave, hence the common name (Paddle plant), but we think "fantastic" really sums it up. This Kalanchoe plant is an absolute stunner!  

Kalanchoe thyrsiflora and Kalanchoe luciae are often confused with each other due to their similar appearance. However, they are two different species of succulent plants with slight differences in leaf shape and flower color. Another Kalanchoe succulent type is Kalanchoe luciae Fantastic Crested, which has more wavy leaves that are similar in color to Kalanchoe Fantastic but are arranged in a rosette that is more compact and tightly clustered than the Fantastic. 

This kalanchoe succulent forms compact basal rosettes of broad gray-green leaves with irregular pale-yellow stripes and reddish tints near the undulate margins. The rosettes grow up to 6 inches tall and up to 10 inches in diameter - talk about making a statement!  

The kalanchoe plant gets more intense hues in cooler temperatures, so it's perfect for your office or home during winter. Not to mention how bold and colorful it looks when combined with other plants. Plus, it blooms pale yellow urn-shaped flowers that appear in clusters from late winter into early spring. This stunning kalanchoe plant can be easily propagated by seeds and cuttings. 

Just keep in mind that this Kalanchoe is monocarpic, which means after flowering it starts to die after blooming, which can take several years. But don't worry, as long as you've cared for it properly, new plants will have formed at its base! 

Watering Needs 

Often, people worry they aren't giving their plants enough water when in reality, they are over-watering them. This is especially the case with these kalanchoe succulents as they don't do well in moist soil, which can result in root rot.  

It's best to wait until the top two inches of soil are completely dry before watering. Watch out for signs of dehydration, such as a pale discoloration and shriveled stem, indicating that the succulent is consuming its interior water supply.  

Besides hydrating correctly, it's also crucial to ensure that the potting soil drains quickly to avoid damaging the succulent roots. As drought-tolerant plants, this variegated paddle plant can thrive with less frequent watering during drought periods in winter, and if you forget to water them for a month or more, they will probably survive just fine. It is better to underwater than overwater this kalanchoe paddle plant, as it is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. 

Light Requirements 

The kalanchoe plants love a lot of sunlight to thrive and bloom, but it's important that the light isn't too intense. If these paddle plants are placed in direct sunlight for too long, it can damage or even kill this vibrant beauty. 

It can flourish in hot and sunny conditions, requiring a minimum of 5-6 hours of bright, indirect light daily. Too little light can cause discoloration and an abnormal appearance, as well as limit its growth.  

When grown indoors, place it in the sunniest place in your house. This kalanchoe succulent may benefit from shade in consistently hot climates. It is ideal to grow this succulent in a west- or a few feet away from a south-facing window.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

The variegated kalanchoe prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture can promote root and stem rot. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

When it comes to fertilizing your paddle plant, remember that less is more. A small amount of fertilizer with a balanced mixture of NPK (5-10-5) once a year in spring will do wonders for your plant's health and growth. Using a natural fertilizer ensures that other beneficial compounds and microbes are added to the soil without the use of harsh chemicals. Show your paddle plant some love with awesome natural fertilizer and watch it thrive. 

Hardiness Zones & More

This paddle plant thrives best at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and is typically grown as an indoor plant. It thrives best in USDA zones 9 and 11 when planted outdoors. If you live in a colder climate, you should put them in a pot, and they can then be kept outdoors during the summer and brought in as the temperature drops.  

Although the kalanchoe luciae fantastic's colors may become more intense during cooler temperatures, it is still a tropical plant that is sensitive to cold.  

Exposure to temperatures below 35 F can cause damage to the succulent, such as leaf drop, or even kill the plant. It's important to keep it in a warm environment and away from cold drafts. If you are unable to bring your Kalanchoe Fantastic inside, you can protect it from the cold by wrapping a frost cloth around it. 

Give this Kalanchoe fantastic - variegated paddle plant a try if you're looking for an easy succulent to care for!