The Plush Plant, scientifically known as Kalanchoe tomentosa, is a popular succulent known for its distinctive velvety foliage. It’s also known as Panda Plant, Pussy Ears, or Chocolate Soldier. Its fuzzy leaves and straightforward care make it a favorite for both experienced and new succulent enthusiasts.
What is a Plush Plant?
The Plush Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa) is a perennial succulent native to Madagascar. It has thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves covered in fine, soft, silvery-white hairs, giving them a fuzzy, felt-like texture. The name “tomentosa” means “covered with fine hairs,” describing this feature.
Leaves are grayish-green, often with reddish-brown or chocolate-brown spots or margins, resembling a panda’s markings. It grows upright and bushy, reaching 1 to 2 feet indoors. Though it can produce small, yellow-green flowers in spring and summer, indoor flowering is rare. It’s primarily grown for its attractive foliage.
Plush Plant Care
Light Requirements
Plush Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, ideally with at least six hours of sunlight daily. Indoors, a south-facing window is often suitable, but protect it from intense, direct afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, to prevent scorching. If natural light is limited, especially in winter, supplementary grow lights can prevent stretching. Rotating the plant encourages even growth.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial, as overwatering commonly leads to root rot. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then let the soil dry completely before rewatering. Check the top 2 inches of soil with a finger or moisture meter to determine watering time. Reduce watering significantly in winter when growth slows. Avoid getting water on fuzzy leaves, as this can cause powdery mildew or fungal issues.
Soil and Potting
Plush Plants need well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal for drainage and aeration. Pots with drainage holes are essential. Repot every two years due to slow growth, choosing a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.
Temperature and Humidity
Ideal temperatures are 60-75°F (15-24°C). While they tolerate slight deviations, extreme cold or heat is detrimental. They are not frost-hardy; bring them indoors below 50°F (10°C). Plush Plants adapt to normal household humidity and thrive in dry air, suitable for most indoor environments.
Fertilizing
Plush Plants don’t need frequent fertilization and can thrive without it if repotted annually into fresh soil. If fertilizing, do so sparingly, perhaps once every few months during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a diluted liquid succulent or cactus fertilizer, as over-fertilization harms the plant. Fertilizing is unnecessary during winter dormancy.
Propagating Your Plush Plant
Propagating Plush Plants is straightforward, most commonly achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings have a higher success rate and root more quickly, often within 15-20 days. For stem cuttings, use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to snip a healthy section, a few inches long with at least two leaves. For leaf propagation, gently twist a healthy leaf from the stem, ensuring no part is left behind.
After taking cuttings, allow them to “callus” by drying them in an empty pot or on a dry surface for 2-3 days. This prevents rot once planted. Once callused, plant cuttings in a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix. Place the pot in bright, indirect light and water sparingly, keeping the soil lightly moist until roots establish and new growth appears.
Common Plush Plant Problems
Overwatering is the most frequent issue, causing mushy stems, yellowing leaves, and root rot. Adjust watering to ensure soil dries completely between waterings. If severe, repot into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming rotted roots.
Leggy growth (stretched stems with sparse leaves) indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location or provide supplemental light. Pruning leggy sections encourages bushier growth.
Plush Plants can be affected by common succulent pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Inspect regularly for signs of infestation, especially on leaf undersides and in crevices. Mild infestations can be managed by wiping pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or by using insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil. Leaf drop can occur from overwatering, underwatering, or sudden temperature fluctuations. Assess soil moisture and environmental conditions to determine the cause.