Kalanchoe 'Ladies Fingers'

Kalanchoe ‘Ladies Fingers’ is an unusual cultivar of the widely grown Flapjacks, differing from the broad, paddle-like leaves of the typical plant. This form produces long, narrow leaves that rise upright from woody stems, giving the plant a distinctive finger-like appearance. Over time, the stems branch to form a shrubby habit, while still maintaining the characteristic grey-green tones of its parentage.

The foliage has a waxy coating that helps conserve water, and the margins can flush red when grown in strong light. This added colour contrast emphasises the elongated shape of the leaves and distinguishes the cultivar from the rounded rosettes of standard Flapjacks. Mature plants can reach 60–90 cm tall, making them a bold specimen in containers or garden plantings.

Flowering may occur on established plants, with tall stalks carrying clusters of tubular blooms in orange to red shades. These flowers provide seasonal interest, but the architectural foliage remains the primary attraction of this cultivar, especially when grown in bright conditions where colour and form are most pronounced.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in bright light with several hours of direct sun daily to maintain compact, upright growth and red-tinted leaf edges.
• Water: Water sparingly, letting the soil dry completely between applications. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
• Media: Use a sharply draining succulent mix with sand, perlite, or grit.
• Fertiliser: Apply a diluted succulent fertiliser monthly in spring and summer.
• Temperature: Best between 18–28 °C. Protect from frost and avoid exposure below 10 °C.
• Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years, pruning or re-rooting stems as needed to maintain shape.

Additional Notes:

• Known to be toxic