The Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Teddy Bear’ is a popular succulent, known for its distinctive fuzzy foliage. Often called ‘Teddy Bear’ succulent, it adds a unique textural element to any indoor collection. Its low maintenance makes it a favored choice for both experienced plant enthusiasts and beginners.
Distinctive Appearance
The Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ is named for its soft, velvety leaves, covered in dense hairs. These thick, rounded leaves are typically grey-green, often accented by chocolate-brown or reddish markings along their tips and margins. The plant forms a compact, bushy habit with leaves arranged in a rosette pattern, branching from the base.
Comprehensive Care Guide
Caring for Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ involves understanding its succulent nature, preferring arid conditions. The right balance of light, water, and soil encourages robust growth and maintains its unique appearance.
Light Needs
Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. Indoors, place it near a south-facing window providing indirect sunlight. Too much direct, intense sun can cause leaf burn, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth.
Watering Practices
As a succulent, Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ stores water in its leaves and stems, making it drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then empty any excess from the saucer. During winter, reduce watering significantly, providing just enough to prevent leaves from shriveling.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ to prevent waterlogging and root problems. A commercial potting mix formulated for succulents or cacti is ideal. Incorporating gritty materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand further enhances drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
This Kalanchoe prefers average room temperatures, thriving between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15-24°C). It tolerates low humidity well and does not require high humidity. Protect the plant from frost, as it is not cold hardy and can suffer damage below 30-40°F (-1.1-4°C).
Fertilizing
Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ does not require frequent fertilization. If fertilizing, do so sparingly during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength, applying it every two to four weeks. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn and is unnecessary due to low nutrient demands.
Propagation Methods
Propagating Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ is straightforward, primarily through stem or leaf cuttings. For best rooting, take cuttings in spring during the active growing season. Snip a healthy stem section or detach a full, undamaged leaf from the mother plant.
Allow the cutting to “callus” for a few days in a dry, shaded area to prevent rot when planted. Once the cut end has dried, plant it in a well-draining succulent mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop, usually within a few weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Several common issues can arise with Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’, often signaling an imbalance in care. Leggy growth, with elongated stems and sparse leaves, indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight to correct this.
Mushy, yellowing, or transparent leaves and stems are signs of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. To resolve this, allow the soil to dry out completely, reduce watering frequency, and ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Conversely, shriveled or wrinkled leaves suggest underwatering, indicating the plant needs a thorough drink.
Kalanchoe ‘Teddy Bear’ can encounter common succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites. Identify them by small, cottony masses (mealybugs) or fine webbing (spider mites). A gentle solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol applied with a cotton swab effectively removes these pests without harming the plant. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.