The Roo Plant (Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi) is a popular succulent known for its distinctive appearance and easy care. Also called Lavender Scallops, it features attractive, often purplish-tinged, scalloped leaves with a powdery, waxy coating. This gives them a frosted look, enhancing their unique coloration. Its resilience and ornamental appeal make it a favorite for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Caring for Your Roo Plant
Light
Roo Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Indoors, a south or west-facing window with filtered sun is ideal. Direct morning sun is tolerated, but intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves or cause a reddish hue. Outdoors, partial shade during the hottest part of the day maintains vibrant coloration and prevents stress. Sufficient light promotes compact growth and characteristic leaf color; insufficient light leads to leggy growth and faded leaves.
Watering
Roo Plants are drought-tolerant succulents, storing water in their fleshy leaves. Overwatering is the most common mistake, quickly leading to root rot. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings, feeling dry several inches down.
When watering, thoroughly drench the soil until water drains from the bottom, then discard excess. Reduce watering significantly during cooler months or dormancy. Slight leaf wrinkling indicates a need for water; soft, mushy leaves signal overwatering.
Soil Requirements
Excellent drainage is crucial for Roo Plant health. They need a well-aerated soil mix that prevents water pooling around roots. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended for quick drainage.
Amending a standard potting mix with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice also creates necessary drainage. The aim is a gritty, loose medium for rapid water percolation. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils that can suffocate roots and promote fungal issues.
Temperature and Humidity
Roo Plants prefer moderate temperatures, typically 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). They are not frost-tolerant; protect them from temperatures below 40°F (4°C), as cold can cause damage or death. Bring outdoor plants indoors in cold winter regions.
These succulents are accustomed to drier environments and do not require high humidity. Average household humidity levels are suitable. High humidity with infrequent airflow can contribute to fungal problems.
Propagating Roo Plants
Roo Plants are easy to propagate, ideal for sharing or expanding a collection. Their natural ability to produce plantlets along leaf margins simplifies the process. Propagation can be achieved through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or by detaching pre-formed plantlets.
From Plantlets
Propagating from plantlets is the easiest method. Small versions of the parent plant form along mature leaf edges. Once plantlets develop roots and leaves, gently detach and place directly onto well-draining succulent soil. Lightly mist the soil until the new plant establishes its root system.
From Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings root readily. Select a healthy stem segment a few inches long and remove lower leaves. Allow the cut end to callus for a day or two in a dry, shaded location to prevent rot. Insert the callused end into a well-draining succulent mix, and water sparingly until roots develop, typically within a few weeks.
From Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings offer another viable propagation route, though slower. Carefully remove a healthy, intact leaf from the main stem. Allow the leaf to callus for a day or two before placing it flat on top of moist succulent soil. New plantlets will eventually emerge from the leaf base, which can then be grown as individual plants once established.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth (elongated stems, sparse leaves) indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sun exposure to encourage compact growth.
Leaf Discoloration
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning) signals improper watering. Yellow, mushy leaves indicate overwatering and potential root rot, requiring reduced watering and improved drainage. Shriveled or crispy leaves suggest underwatering, needing a more consistent, though infrequent, watering schedule.
Pests
Pests like mealybugs and aphids can infest Roo Plants, appearing as white, cottony masses or small dots. Apply insecticidal soap or wipe with a rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab to remove them. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early, preventing widespread damage.
Uses and Benefits
The Roo Plant’s appealing form and drought tolerance make it versatile for landscape and indoor applications. It functions well as a low-maintenance houseplant, adding color and texture indoors. Outdoors, it serves as groundcover, in rock gardens, or as an accent plant in mixed container arrangements. Its ease of care and attractive foliage are key benefits.