Silver Teaspoon Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pumila)

Silver Teaspoon Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe pumila

Soft silver foliage glows like frosted silk, with delicate pink blooms trailing gently. Low-growing succulent shrub; common name: Silver Gray Kalanchoe.

Partial sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to full sun; silvery foliage may fade in low light, while harsh direct summer sun can scorch leaves.
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Watering Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot.
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to avoid frost damage and leaf drop.
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Round to oval, fleshy succulent leaves covered in fine white hairs, giving a silvery-gray appearance.
  • Flower: Clusters of small, star-shaped pink to pale purple blooms on upright, slender stems.
  • Stem: Trailing, woody at the base with age, producing new growth from leaf nodes.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is fully dry; reduce frequency during humid periods

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to allow the plant to enter a dormant period.

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush thoroughly dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to add calcium without risking root burn or nutrient buildup.
Pruning
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to encourage bushier, more compact growth.
  • Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to new foliage growth.
  • Prune dead or damaged leaves at the base to maintain plant health and tidy appearance.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains bufadienolides which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm, and lethargy.

Humans: Mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation if ingested; minor skin irritation in sensitive individuals upon contact.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience and persistence, as it thrives in low-water, sunny conditions.

Usage: Ornamental succulent for hanging baskets, rock gardens, and windowsill container displays.