How to Grow and Care for Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa) in Australia

The Panda Plant, botanically known as Kalanchoe tomentosa and sometimes called the Chocolate Soldier, is a soft, velvety succulent with fuzzy grey-green leaves edged in brown. Native to Madagascar, it’s a favourite for Australian growers looking for low-maintenance indoor or patio plants with unique texture and charm.

This succulent thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Outdoors, it prefers morning sun and filtered afternoon light. Indoors, keep it near a bright window, ideally north- or east-facing. If you’re wondering how to care for a panda plant, light is key—too little will cause leggy growth, while too much harsh sun may burn its fuzzy leaves.

How often to water a panda plant? Only when the soil is completely dry. In warm seasons, water every 10–14 days. In winter, reduce watering to once a month. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure. Always use a gritty, fast-draining succulent mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertiliser like CompleteGrow Cactus Succulent Plant Food (2-7-7). This encourages compact growth, maintains leaf colour, and supports gentle flowering without overstimulating weak stems.

Is panda plant toxic to pets? Yes—Kalanchoe tomentosa is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets, especially indoors. While not usually fatal, ingestion can cause vomiting or gastrointestinal discomfort.

With good light, dry roots, and occasional feeding, the Panda Plant makes a hardy and decorative addition to any succulent collection—indoors or out. Its soft texture, compact form, and low water needs make it ideal for pots, windowsills, and small-space gardens across Australia.

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How to Propagate and Grow Panda Plant Through the Seasons

Panda Plants grow slowly but steadily, reaching 30–50 cm tall and wide over several years. Their fleshy, felt-like leaves retain water efficiently, making them well adapted to dry climates and indoor spaces. With minimal maintenance, they develop a dense, upright form with multiple branches and thick stems.

Propagation of panda plant is simple and rewarding. You can use either leaf cuttings or stem cuttings, although stems tend to root faster and establish more reliably:

Stem method: Snip a healthy stem (8–12 cm), let the cut end dry for 2–3 days, then place it into dry, well-draining soil. Mist lightly until new roots form.
Leaf method: Gently twist off a full, healthy leaf. Allow it to callous over, then press the base into moist succulent soil. Rooting can take several weeks.

Propagation is best done in spring and early summer when temperatures are above 20°C. Panda Plants are dormant in winter and less likely to root successfully in cold, damp conditions.

Throughout the growing season (October to April), feed once a month with diluted Cactus & Succulent Fertiliser 2-7-7. This formula ensures potassium-rich nutrition to support slow growth, prevent spindly stems, and encourage flowering in mature plants.

Outdoors, protect plants from frost and excess rain. If growing in-ground or on patios, move pots under cover during cold snaps or extended wet weather. Indoors, reduce watering in winter and keep away from heaters that can dry the leaves or trigger premature dormancy.

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Troubleshooting Panda Plant Issues: Rot, Stretching & Leaf Drop

Despite its hardy appearance, Kalanchoe tomentosa can encounter a few issues—most of them related to overwatering, poor drainage, or lack of sunlight.

Root rot: Caused by soggy soil or excessive humidity. Prevent this by using cactus mix and spacing waterings 10–14 days apart in warm weather.
Leggy growth: If your panda plant is tall and stretched with sparse leaves, it’s not getting enough light. Move it closer to a window or under a grow lamp.
Leaf drop or shrivelling: May signal underwatering, especially in hot indoor environments. Water deeply once dry, and mist leaves lightly during hot periods.

Unlike many succulents, Panda Plants rarely flower in domestic settings. If yours does, expect tubular, rusty-orange blooms at the tip of mature stems during summer.

Panda Plant – Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water a panda plant?
Every 10–14 days in warm weather, and monthly in winter. Let soil dry fully between waterings.

Can I grow panda plant outdoors in Australia?
Yes—in frost-free regions like coastal NSW, SE QLD, and parts of WA. Keep it sheltered from heavy rain and strong afternoon sun.

Is the panda plant a type of kalanchoe?
Yes. It’s a species of succulent in the Kalanchoe genus, known for its furry, velvety leaves and compact size.

Is panda plant toxic to pets?
Yes—it’s considered mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets indoors.

Do panda plants flower?
Rarely, and mostly in mature outdoor plants. Blooms are small and appear on long stalks, typically in summer.