Kalanchoe - Hildebrandtii aka Silver Spoons

Kalanchoe hildebrandtii 'Silver Spoons' is a distinctive and charming succulent prized for its uniquely shaped, velvety leaves that resemble small, silver spoons. Native to Madagascar, this relatively easy-to-care-for plant adds a touch of textural interest and subtle beauty to any succulent collection or indoor garden.
 
Key Features of Kalanchoe hildebrandtii 'Silver Spoons'
Spoon-Shaped Leaves: The most notable feature is its rounded, concave leaves that resemble tiny spoons.
Silvery-White Velvety Coating: The leaves are covered in a fine, silvery-white fuzz, giving them a soft, velvety texture and a pale, luminous appearance.
Opposite Leaf Arrangement: Leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems.
Branched Stems: Develops branched stems that can become slightly woody with age.
Relatively Small Size: Typically remains a compact plant, suitable for smaller pots.
Potential for Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small, bell-shaped, greenish-yellow flowers on tall stalks.
 
Care for Your Kalanchoe hildebrandtii 'Silver Spoons'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the delicate leaves. An east or west-facing window is often ideal.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is highly recommended.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a significant risk for this plant. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Kalanchoe hildebrandtii 'Silver Spoons'
Handling Leaves Carefully: Avoid touching the leaves excessively, as this can remove the velvety coating.
Removing Dead Leaves: Gently remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the plant.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring is usually the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: A relatively easy method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut end to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: Can also be propagated from individual leaves, although it can be slower. Allow the leaf to callus over before placing it on well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge from the base of the leaf.
 
Kalanchoe hildebrandtii 'Silver Spoons' is a unique and appealing succulent with its soft, silvery foliage and intriguing spoon-like leaf shape. Its relatively easy care makes it a delightful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection, providing textural contrast and subtle beauty.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.