Kalanchoe orgyalis, commonly known as Copper Spoons, is a succulent plant known for its striking foliage. Its velvety, coppery-brown leaves have a sculptural quality, making it a captivating addition to any plant collection.
Understanding Copper Spoons
Kalanchoe orgyalis is a succulent shrub with stout, erect, and branched stems. Its fleshy, oval leaves fold upward from the middle, creating a spoon-like appearance. The upper surface is covered in fine, felt-like, coppery-brown or cinnamon-colored hairs, which can age to silvery-gray. The underside often displays a bronze to gray hue.
This slow-growing plant is native to the dry, rocky regions of southern and southwestern Madagascar, where it thrives in arid conditions. In its natural habitat, it can reach heights of up to 6 feet, though it remains much smaller when cultivated indoors.
Essential Care for Copper Spoons
Providing the right environment ensures healthy growth and vibrant coloration for your Copper Spoons plant. Light exposure is a primary consideration, as Kalanchoe orgyalis thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, causing stems to stretch and growth to become leggy and less compact, also fading the characteristic copper color. Indoors, place it near a south-facing window for optimal light. In hotter climates, strong afternoon sun might necessitate some filtered light to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering practices are key for this succulent, which stores water in its thick leaves. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot. During winter or dormancy, reduce watering frequency significantly, only watering when leaves show slight shriveling.
Soil type impacts drainage and overall plant health. A well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix is suitable; enhance drainage by adding perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Clay pots are preferred as their porous nature wicks away excess moisture. These plants prefer moderate to warm temperatures, ideally 60 to 85°F (15-29°C). They are not tolerant of frost; exposure below 40°F (4°C) can cause severe damage.
Average household humidity is suitable for Copper Spoons, as they tolerate low levels well. Fertilizing needs are minimal for this slow-growing succulent. If fertilizing, a diluted balanced succulent fertilizer applied once or twice during the active growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so use a half-strength solution if fertilizing regularly.
Propagating Copper Spoons
Propagating Copper Spoons is straightforward, done through stem or leaf cuttings.
Stem Cuttings
For stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut just above a leaf node. Allow the cut end to “callous” or dry out for several days to a week; this prevents rot when planted. Once calloused, plant it in well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Water sparingly until roots establish, which takes a few weeks.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are also an option, though slower to root. To propagate from a leaf, gently twist a healthy leaf from the main plant, ensuring the entire leaf is removed. Allow it to callous for a few days, then place it on top of moist, well-draining soil. New plantlets will emerge from the leaf’s base.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Copper Spoons can encounter common issues. Root rot is a common problem, indicated by mushy stems, yellowing leaves, or a general decline in plant health. This condition typically results from overwatering, preventable by following the “soak and dry” method and ensuring excellent drainage. If severe, repotting into fresh, dry soil after trimming affected roots may be necessary.
Etiolation occurs when the plant does not receive enough light, causing stems to elongate and leaves to space far apart. The plant’s vibrant copper color may fade in low light. Address etiolation by moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight; pruning leggy growth can encourage a more compact form.
Pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids may infest Copper Spoons. Symptoms include small white, cottony masses (mealybugs), fine webbing (spider mites), or visible small insects. Treating minor infestations involves wiping pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap. Consistent care helps maintain plant resilience.
Leaf drop or discoloration signals environmental stress. Yellowing or mushy leaves indicate overwatering, while dry, crispy leaves may indicate underwatering. Sudden leaf drop may also result from extreme temperature fluctuations or insufficient light. Assess watering habits and ensure the plant is in its preferred temperature range and light conditions to resolve these issues.