The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa is a succulent plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family, Kalanchoe genus, originally from Madagascar in East Africa. Also known as "Jigong," it is a perennial succulent with fan-shaped silver-gray leaves adorned with brownish markings, resembling the markings of a sparrow. The leaf margins are irregularly serrated, about 1-2 centimeters long, and range in color from blue-gray to grayish-green. The leaves have a thin layer of white powder on the surface. Inadequate light during cultivation can lead to elongated stems and leaves, loose plant structure, dull leaf color, disappearance of white powder, fading of spot colors, and lack of vitality in the plant. Strong direct sunlight in summer can cause leaf tip withering. Therefore, apart from providing proper shading during high temperatures in summer, adequate sunlight should be provided during other seasons for prominent purple-brown spot markings and beautiful appearance.
It prefers warm, dry environments with ample sunlight, is not cold-resistant, dislikes excessive watering, and tolerates drought and partial shade. Both strong sunlight exposure and excessive shading are unfavorable for plant growth. Insufficient light during cultivation can lead to elongated stems and leaves, loose plant structure, dull leaf color, disappearance of white powder, fading of spot colors, and lack of vitality in the plant, severely affecting its ornamental value. Strong sunlight exposure in summer can cause leaf tip withering. Therefore, apart from providing proper shading during high temperatures in summer, adequate sunlight should be provided during other seasons to cultivate plants with thick leaves, prominent white powder, clear purple-brown spot markings, and a beautiful appearance.
During the slow growth of the plant in summer, ventilation should be enhanced to prevent yellowing and rotting of the stem and leaves due to excessive soil moisture. In winter, it should be placed in a sunny indoor location, with temperatures not dropping below 12°C at night and staying above 18°C during the day, allowing normal watering to maintain plant growth. If it is difficult to maintain such high temperatures, water should be restricted to induce plant dormancy, which can withstand temperatures as low as 5°C.
Spring and autumn are the vigorous growth periods for the plant. Keep the soil moist without waterlogging, and apply a thin, diluted organic or inorganic compound fertilizer monthly.
Repot once a year in spring and prune the plant to maintain its perfect shape. The potting soil should be loose and fertile, with good drainage and water retention properties. A mixture of 2 parts leaf mold, 1 part garden soil, 2 parts coarse sand or vermiculite, and a small amount of well-rotted bone meal is suitable. Due to the well-developed root system of this species, larger flower pots should be used for planting. Newly planted plants should be placed in a bright location without direct sunlight and should not be watered too much. Normal care can be resumed after the plant resumes growth.
The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa is relatively easy to care for. During the growing season, watering once in a while is sufficient. However, proper ventilation is necessary, and except for shading in summer, full sunlight can be provided throughout the year. The soil mixture I use is a combination of peat and granular coal slag river sand, with clean granular river sand spread on the soil surface for better aeration.
For propagation, stem cuttings are preferred over leaf cuttings because stem cuttings root and sprout faster and are easier to handle. Stem cuttings are usually performed in spring and autumn, when the success rate is higher. Stem segments should be healthy and taken from the top of the plant, about 5-8 centimeters long. After allowing the wounds to dry in a shaded area, they can be inserted into succulent planting soil. The medium does not have strict requirements, but succulent planting soil is recommended. Keep the soil slightly moist during propagation, but not too wet, to prevent rot. Roots should develop in about 10 days.
Leaf cuttings for the Kalanchoe rhombopilosa are not recommended because rooting and sprouting take longer compared to other succulents. However, if patience allows, leaf cuttings can be attempted. Thick leaves are preferred for leaf cuttings, and they can simply be laid on the medium. Some gardeners have successfully propagated by inserting leaf petioles into the soil. Rooting for leaf cuttings takes about 15 days, while sprouting may take longer and requires patience.
Basic habits of the Kalanchoe rhombopilosa:
It is a summer-type species that prefers ample sunlight, warm and dry environments, and tolerates drought and partial shade. However, it is not resistant to high temperatures and severe cold. Excessive sun exposure in summer can cause leaf burning and edge scorching, while prolonged absence of sunlight can lead to elongation and fading of markings. Therefore, apart from providing proper shading during high temperatures in summer, sufficient sunlight should be provided during other times.
The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa has strict requirements for light, as it should not be exposed to strong sunlight or overly shaded environments. Excessive sun exposure in summer can cause leaf burning and edge scorching, while prolonged absence of sunlight can lead to elongation and fading of markings. Therefore, apart from providing proper shading during high temperatures in summer, sufficient sunlight should be provided during other times.
The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa is drought-tolerant but not tolerant of waterlogging. Prolonged moisture and standing water can cause root and stem rot. Watering should be based on the dryness of the soil and the growth cycle. During periods of extreme heat or cold, water sparingly or not at all.
The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa usually blooms from late spring to early summer after becoming established, but flowering is relatively rare. It is primarily cultivated for its foliage. Propagation is commonly done through leaf or stem cuttings. For leaf cuttings, older leaves from the lower part of the plant are preferred, while for stem cuttings, semi-woody top shoots or lateral branches are chosen.
Maintenance considerations:
Protect the white powder layer on the surface of the leaves from damage during daily care to maintain its ornamental value.
The Kalanchoe rhombopilosa has relatively sparse leaves and belongs to the category of thin-leaved varieties among succulents. Therefore, it requires controlled cultivation, proper pruning, and shaping to maintain a compact plant shape and good appearance over time. Prolonged lack of sunlight or excessive watering can cause the leaf spacing to widen and the markings to fade, so long-term controlled cultivation is necessary to maintain a compact plant shape and good appearance.
The predominant color of the Kalanchoe rhombopilosa leaves is grayish-white, and they are susceptible to sunburn and yellowing in strong summer sunlight. Therefore, it should be moved to a cool and ventilated place to avoid heat stress during hot summers. Since it is not cold-resistant, watering should be controlled during cold winter periods to keep the soil dry, and it should be placed in a warm and dry location for overwintering.
These care tips will help ensure the healthy growth and beautiful appearance of the Kalanchoe rhombopilosa succulent plant.