The Alice Plant, scientifically known as Kalanchoe luciae, is a striking succulent prized for its unique form and vibrant coloration. Its distinct, paddle-shaped leaves make it a popular addition to diverse garden settings, from outdoor landscapes to indoor container displays.
Understanding the Alice Plant
The Alice Plant (Kalanchoe luciae) is also known as Paddle Plant, Flapjack Plant, and Desert Cabbage. It forms attractive rosettes of large, fleshy, rounded leaves up to 9.2 inches (23 cm) long and 6 inches (15 cm) wide. The leaves are typically grey-green to yellowish-green, often developing striking red margins when exposed to ample sunlight and cooler temperatures. A powdery white coating on the leaves, known as farina, helps to protect the plant from intense sunlight.
This succulent is native to South Africa, thriving in arid, warm climates, growing on hills, ridges, and granite slopes. The plant can reach a mature height of 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) and a width of 23 to 35 inches (60-90 cm), forming a basal rosette that can spread significantly.
Alice Plant Care
Light Requirements
The Alice Plant thrives in bright light, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its vibrant leaf coloration. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal. Outdoors, provide some partial shade during the hottest afternoon hours to prevent leaf scorching, especially in very hot climates.
Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch or become leggy, and its leaves may lose their characteristic red hues, remaining a dull green.
Watering Needs
The Alice Plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common problem and can lead to root rot.
During the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter, watering should be significantly reduced or even withheld, only providing moisture when leaves show signs of shriveling.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is crucial for the Alice Plant, as it does not tolerate “wet feet.” A commercial succulent or cactus potting mix is generally suitable. Enhancing drainage can be achieved by adding materials like perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to the soil mixture. When selecting a pot, opt for one with drainage holes, preferably made from porous materials like terracotta or clay, which allow for better aeration and moisture evaporation.
These plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one when repotting, typically every two years in spring.
Temperature and Humidity
The Alice Plant thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 85°F (15°C and 29°C). It is not cold-hardy and cannot tolerate frost. If outdoor temperatures drop below 20°F (-6.7°C), it is advisable to bring the plant indoors to prevent damage.
Indoors, maintain a stable temperature and keep the plant away from cold drafts or heating vents. This succulent prefers low humidity, reflecting its natural arid habitat.
Fertilization
Alice Plants do not have high fertilization requirements and can grow well without it, as light exposure is more influential for their growth and flowering. If desired, a light application of a balanced succulent fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, can be given during the spring and summer growing season. Fertilize sparingly, perhaps every few months or every two weeks depending on dilution, as over-fertilization can harm the plant.
Propagating Alice Plants
Offsets
The easiest method involves separating the small offsets that form at the base of the mature plant. Using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors, carefully cut the offsets from the primary stem. Allow these separated offsets to dry and callous over for one to two days before planting them in well-draining succulent soil.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are another viable propagation method, best done in spring or summer. Select a healthy, undamaged leaf and gently twist it from the stem, ensuring a clean break. Similar to offsets, the cut end of the leaf needs to callous for a few days to a week to prevent rot when planted. Once calloused, place the leaf on top of well-draining soil, keeping the soil slightly moist. Roots and new plantlets will eventually emerge from the calloused end, typically within a few weeks.
Common Problems and Solutions
Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering is a frequent issue for Alice Plants, often leading to root rot, where the base of the plant softens and turns black. This problem often manifests as yellowing or mushy leaves. To address this, ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Underwatering, conversely, causes leaves to shrivel or become dry and crispy, particularly the lower ones; a thorough watering will usually revive the plant.
Insufficient Light
Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch, resulting in a leggy appearance where the stem elongates, and leaves are spaced far apart. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight will encourage more compact and colorful growth.
Pests
Pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can also affect Alice Plants. Signs of infestation include distorted leaves, sticky residue, or visible insects, which can be treated by wiping them off with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Alice Plant Toxicity
Kalanchoe luciae is considered toxic if ingested by pets and children. The plant contains compounds called bufadienolides, which can be harmful. Symptoms of poisoning can include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In more severe, though rare, cases, cardiac issues like abnormal heart rhythms may occur, particularly if large quantities are consumed. To ensure safety, it is advisable to place Alice Plants in locations inaccessible to curious pets and young children.