Tugela Cliff-Kalanchoe Plant Info

  • Perennial, succulent
  • Hardiness: USDA zones 9 to 11
  • Full Grown Size: 16 inches (40 cm) tall
  • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
  • Maintenance: Water when the soil is completely dry and lightly fertilize once a month during the growing season

Tugela cliff-kalanchoe is a succulent that mainly grows on rocky cliffs and slopes. Its leaves are greenish-gray and fleshy with blue and red tints, and they can change color depending on light exposure. Another stunning feature of the foliage is it’s shell-like shape with toothed edges that often produce clusters of bright yellow flowers that contrast with the leaves.  

Kalanchoe longiflora coccinea
Tugela Cliff-kalanchoe
Long-flower kalanchoe
Red kalanchoe
There are no known varieties of this species
Bright yellow, pink, red, or orange blooms

Water

The plant is drought-tolerant and does not need much water. Water only when the soil is completely dry. It's ideal to water once every two weeks in summer and once every month or less in winter. When growing in containers, water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom, and then allow it to dry out before watering again.

Sunlight

Place the plant in an area that receives dappled sun. Too much sun can cause the leaves to burn or fade, while too little sun can cause the plant to become leggy or lose its color. If you're growing it indoors, place it near a bright window that receives indirect light for at least 6 hours a day.

Soil

Tugela needs well-drained soil that does not retain too much moisture, so make sure the soil is rich in organic matter. It can grow in sandy or gravelly soil too, as long as there's adequate drainage.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer once a month during the growing season by diluting the dresser to half the recommended strength and applying it to the soil after watering.

Pruning

The plant has a naturally controlled growing rate so it does not need pruning. But you can trim it to shape it as this also encourages new growth and flowering. If you do decide to prune it, do so after it has finished blooming, usually in late summer or early fall.

Propagation

Stem cuttings
Leaf cuttings
Offsets

Thrives in

Indoors or outdoors, as long as it gets enough light and air circulation

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains bufadienolides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, tremors, seizures, or heart problems in large doses.

Pests & Diseases

Generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by:
Spider mites
Aphids
Mealybugs
Scale insects
Root rot
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections

Landscaping Ideas

Ground cover
Border plant
Rock garden
Container plant

Last Updated: August 21, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.

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