Panda Plant Care Guide: How to Grow Kalanchoe Tomentosa

The panda plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa) is a perennial succulent that is native to Madagascar. Panda plants can grow up to two feet tall in their natural environment. Their leaves are grey-green with chocolate-brown edges, and they’re covered in silver hairs called trichomes. The botanical name of the panda plant, Kalanchoe tomentosa, means “covered with fine hairs.” Panda plants are known by many other names, including white lady, donkey ears, chocolate soldiers, pussy ears, cat ears, and plush plant.

Growing panda plants as indoor succulents is relatively easy, so long as you keep watering to a minimum and avoid extreme temperatures.

• Water sparingly. As with many drought-tolerant succulents, too much water can cause root rot. Water your panda plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
• Keep panda plants at room temperature. Panda plants flourish best when grown in room temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Fertilize monthly. Panda plants are known for hardiness, but fertilizing can help them thrive. Fertilize mature panda plants with diluted fertilizer every month during the growing season, or from spring until the end of summer.
• Repot your plants as needed. As slow-growers, panda plants don’t need to be repotted every year like some succulents. Repotting once every two years should be sufficient. These plants are also ideal for gardeners interested in propagation.
• Watch for pests. Mealybugs can be an issue for panda plants, so examine your plant regularly. If mealybugs appear, remove them with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol.
• Keep panda plants away from pets. Every part of the panda plant is toxic to cats and dogs, so be sure to keep these plants away from pets.

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