Kalanchoe orgyalis aka Copper Spoons

Taxonomy

Kalanchoe orgyalis, commonly known as Copper Spoons, is a succulent species of flowering plant native to Madagascar and tropical Africa. With its unique double-colored oval leaves of silver shades beneath and coppery upper sides, this low-maintenance plant can bring a nice contrasting look to the garden. Standing up to 3-6 ft. tall (91-180 cm), this plant is perfect for busy gardeners/amateurs, since its succulent leaves help store water during droughts. Hence its Cantonese name Ka-lun-koh-ee, Kalanchoe orgyalis is suitable for areas with occasional droughts and can be easily forgotten, but still give you the most glamorous leaves in return.

Common names

Copper Spoons

How to care for Copper Spoons

Difficulty

Caring for Copper Spoons is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Copper Spoons does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

When growing the Copper Spoons, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.

Lighting

Copper Spoons requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Copper Spoons is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

Copper Spoons plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.

Fertilizer

The Copper Spoons should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Copper Spoons’s native range is Madagascar and Tropical Africa.


More info:
Wikipedia