The Flapjack Tree, known for its distinctive paddle-shaped leaves, brings a unique visual element to any plant collection. This succulent, admired for its vibrant color changes, is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor settings. Its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care requirements make it an appealing option for gardeners of varying experience levels.
Understanding the Flapjack Tree
The Flapjack Tree, scientifically known as Kalanchoe luciae, is often confused with Kalanchoe thyrsiflora. Both species are native to Southern Africa and share similar paddle-like, fleshy leaves. Kalanchoe luciae develops bright pink to deep red margins on its leaves when exposed to adequate sunlight, while Kalanchoe thyrsiflora typically has chalky green or white leaves with little to no red coloration. Common names include Paddle Plant, Desert Cabbage, and Red Pancake. The leaves are large, rounded, flat, and often covered with a powdery white bloom that helps protect them from intense sun.
Cultivating Your Flapjack Tree
Light
Flapjack Trees thrive in bright, direct sunlight, which is essential for developing the characteristic red margins on their leaves. Placing them in a location that receives at least six hours of daily sunlight is recommended. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, causing the plant to become leggy and lose its compact, attractive rosette form and vibrant coloration. When grown outdoors, some protection from intense afternoon sun in extremely hot climates can prevent leaf scorch.
Soil
Well-draining soil is important for Flapjack Trees, as they are susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, providing necessary drainage and aeration. For garden planting, incorporating coarse sand or grit into heavier soils can significantly improve drainage. Using porous pots like terracotta also helps prevent excess moisture buildup, allowing the soil to dry more quickly.
Watering
Flapjack Trees are drought-tolerant succulents and prefer a sparse watering routine. The “soak and dry” method is effective: water thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out, ensuring excess water drains away freely. Overwatering can lead to mushy, discolored leaves and root rot, while underwatering may cause leaves to shrivel. During winter, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped altogether, as the plant’s water requirements are minimal.
Temperature and Humidity
Flapjack Trees prefer warm conditions and are not tolerant of cold temperatures or frost. They thrive in temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (10-27 degrees Celsius) and are hardy in USDA zones 9-12. If temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, bring them indoors to prevent damage. These succulents are adapted to dry environments, so average household humidity levels are suitable; excessive humidity can contribute to fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Flapjack Trees do not require heavy fertilization, as light exposure is more important for their growth and flowering. If desired, a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season in spring and summer, once every couple of months. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental to the plant’s health.
Pruning
Pruning for Flapjack Trees is minimal, primarily involving removing dead or damaged leaves. After flowering, the spent flower stalk can be removed, which may encourage the plant to produce new offsets at its base. If the plant becomes leggy due to insufficient light, trimming it back can help restore a more compact form.
Ideal Placement and Uses
The unique appearance of the Flapjack Tree makes it a versatile plant for various settings. Its striking form and color changes allow it to serve as an accent plant in rock gardens or as part of xeriscaping designs, which focus on low-water landscaping. They are well-suited for container planting, both indoors and outdoors, particularly in regions where they need to be moved indoors during colder months. As a houseplant, it adds a distinctive visual appeal to sunny windowsills or well-lit indoor spaces. Its ability to thrive in dry conditions also makes it a good companion for other succulents in mixed arrangements.
Addressing Common Flapjack Tree Problems
Several issues can arise when growing Flapjack Trees, often related to environmental conditions.
Leaf Discoloration
Green leaves without the characteristic red blush indicate a lack of sufficient sunlight. Yellowing or mushy leaves point to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If leaves appear shriveled, the plant is underwatered.
Leggy Growth (Etiolation)
Leggy growth, or etiolation, signifies inadequate light exposure. Correcting this requires moving the plant to a brighter location.
Root Rot
Root rot, a fungal disease caused by overwatering and poor drainage, results in mushy, discolored roots and can lead to plant decline. Treatment involves removing affected parts, repotting in fresh, well-draining soil, and adjusting watering practices.
Pests
Common succulent pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies can infest Flapjack Trees. These can be managed by gently wiping them off with rubbing alcohol or using neem oil or an insecticidal spray for more severe infestations.
Fungal Diseases
Powdery mildew and black spot are fungal diseases that can occur in humid conditions. Affected leaves should be removed, with fungicides applied if necessary.