About
Kalanchoe marmorata, the penwiper plant, is a succulent perennial with obovate, toothed, purple-mottled, glaucous leaves to 20 cm long. Panicles of white or pinkish flowers with slender tubes and spreading lobes to 25 mm long are produced in spring. A striking and ornamental succulent for a sunny windowsill or frost-free greenhouse.
About the genus
Kalanchoe are annuals, biennials, perennials, shrubs and small trees with succulent, simple or pinnately lobed foliage and tubular or bell-shaped flowers with four lobes. One of the most diverse succulent genera, ranging from compact houseplants to large, impressive shrubs. Easy to grow in sunny, frost-free conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toC & E Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with additional sharp sand or grit in full light with good ventilation. Water moderately throughout the year but more sparingly in winter. In the growing season feed a balanced liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19 - 21°C in early spring or by offsets
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs and aphids
Disease resistancePowdery mildews and a rust may be a problem