Plate No. 25

Paddle Plant

Kalanchoe luciae

"Flapjacks stacked in red and green"

Native to

Highlands of South Africa, Lesotho and eSwatini

Botanical illustration of Paddle Plant — Kalanchoe luciae — drawn from life

Identification

Is this your plant?

Compare these reference photographs to help identify a paddle plant in your own collection.

Whole plant
A Paddle Plant shown in full — overall shape and habit.
Leaf detail
Close-up of Paddle Plant leaves — texture, color, and edges.
Flowers
Paddle Plant in bloom — flower form and color.
Growth form
Paddle Plant growing habit — stems, base, and offsets.

History

A brief account

Paddle Plant is one of the most vivid succulents, with broad, rounded leaves that can flush deep red around the edges when the light is strong. It was named for the French missionary Father Lucius and introduced to European collectors in the early 20th century, where its bold shape and dramatic colouring made it an instant hit. In bright sun, the foliage takes on a rich, almost painted quality that makes it look more like an ornamental sculpture than a simple houseplant. It remains a favorite for anyone who wants a succulent with real visual drama.

How to care for

Place Paddle Plant according to its light needs: Full direct sun for the strongest red blush. For watering, sparingly — every two to three weeks once dry. For the potting medium, use sharp-draining cactus mix. Good drainage is essential: let surplus water escape freely and never leave the roots standing in a wet saucer. 10–27°C. Protect from hard frost. Check the compost before watering instead of following a rigid calendar, since light, temperature, pot size and season all affect how quickly it dries. During slower growth, reduce watering and wait longer between drinks.

How to propagate

Leaf or stem cuttings, or by separating basal offsets. Propagation is most reliable during the plant's active growing season, when warmth and good light help new roots establish. Start with clean tools and healthy material, and keep the new plant in conditions appropriate for the parent. Where a cutting or division creates a wound, allow the surface to dry before planting unless the method calls for immediate rooting in water or moist mix. Once roots form and fresh growth appears, gradually move the young Paddle Plant into its normal watering routine; excess moisture is especially risky while the root system is still small.

Cultivation

Quick tips for care & planting

Light: Full direct sun for the strongest red blush.
Water: Sparingly — every two to three weeks once dry.
Soil: Sharp-draining cactus mix.
Temperature: 10–27°C. Protect from hard frost.
Propagation: Leaf or stem cuttings, or by separating basal offsets.