Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ is a popular succulent cherished for its distinctive appearance and straightforward care. It offers an appealing option for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts, providing visual interest without demanding extensive attention.
Understanding Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ is a hybrid (Kalanchoe delagoensis x Kalanchoe daigremontiana). This succulent features upright growth and dense foliage. Its defining characteristic is the tiny plantlets, or bulbils, that form along the serrated leaf margins. These plantlets give the plant a unique ‘dragon-like’ appearance and are its primary method of propagation. Leaves are typically apple-green, sometimes blushing red in bright light or cooler temperatures.
Caring for Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’
Light Needs
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally 6 to 8 hours daily. An east-facing window offers beneficial morning sun. South or west-facing windows also work, but protect the plant from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Leggy growth, with elongated stems and sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light, requiring a brighter location.
Watering
Watering Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ properly is important, as overwatering is a common issue. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the soil to dry almost completely before rewatering. Symptoms of overwatering include yellowing, wilting, or mushy leaves and stems, potentially leading to root rot. Underwatering can cause shriveled or crispy leaves.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil prevents waterlogging and root rot for Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’. Use a succulent or cactus potting mix. Alternatively, create your own by combining potting soil with perlite or coarse sand, such as two parts potting soil, one part coarse sand, and one part perlite. A 50/50 mix of potting soil and cactus mix also works. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ prefers average room temperatures, between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). It tolerates dry indoor air, typical for succulents. The plant has little tolerance for cold and is sensitive to frost; bring it indoors if temperatures fall below 45°F (7°C). Protect it from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ does not require heavy fertilization. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer monthly or every two to four weeks. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent over-fertilization. Withhold fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ propagates easily from the small plantlets that develop along its leaf edges. These plantlets naturally detach and root in surrounding soil. To propagate, collect mature plantlets or allow them to drop onto the soil around the mother plant.
Place detached plantlets on a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy, to encourage rooting. Spring and summer are ideal for propagation, coinciding with active growth. While other Kalanchoe species can use stem or leaf cuttings, the plantlet method is highly effective for ‘Little Dragon’.
Common Issues and Solutions
Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to root rot, which manifests as mushy stems, yellowing leaves, and a foul smell from the soil. To address this, stop watering immediately, improve air circulation, and allow the soil to dry completely. In severe cases, repotting into fresh, dry soil and removing any rotted roots may be necessary.
Kalanchoe ‘Little Dragon’ can be susceptible to common succulent pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses in leaf axils, while aphids are small, soft-bodied insects often found in clusters on new growth. Spider mites can be identified by fine webbing on the plant. Organic treatments such as neem oil or insecticidal soap can effectively manage these infestations.
Insufficient light can cause leggy growth, where stems stretch and leaves appear dull or pale. Moving the plant to a brighter location, such as a south or west-facing window, or supplementing with a grow light, can remedy this. Leaf drop can occur from either overwatering or extreme dryness; adjusting the watering schedule to the “soak and dry” method helps prevent this.