Silver Teaspoons Kalanchoe bracteata

Silver teaspoons is a slow-growing, compact shrubby succulent that is native to Madagascar. It is a member of the stonecrop or orpine family (Crassulaceae). The specific epithet, bracteata, refers to the floral bracts of this species. Its silvery, pubescent, and spoon-shaped leaves reference its common names, silver spoons and silver teaspoons.

This plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some direct sun, but it is best to avoid the hot afternoon sun. It prefers warm climates and does well in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, it can be used as a houseplant. The soil should be high in organic matter. For indoor plants, a succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended. Avoid overwatering. It is best to let the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant is dormant during the winter and watering should be further reduced during that time. Propagation can be completed through stem cuttings.

Silver teaspoons have an erect and mounding habit and may grow up to 2 to 4 feet tall and equally as wide. The white stems are moderately woody and four-angled. The leaves are ovate, ovate-orbicular, or lanceolate (spoon-shaped) with pointed tips, 1-2 inches long, 1.6 inches wide, grayish-silver-white to olive green, and have a short petiole. The leaves are covered with a silvery pubescence or fuzz and a waxy coating. The red flowers appear in the summer on branched terminal inflorescences or cymes.. 

Silver teaspoons has attractive foliage and is a low maintenance plant. In warmer climates it could be used as an accent plant, border planting or in rock gardens. In colder climates, the silvery foliage would add a nice contrast in a houseplant collection. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs,scale, aphids and spider mites. Overwatering can result in root rot. Prolonged and intense sunlight can cause leaf burn.

Be aware that this plant is toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Keep this plant out of the reach of children and pets.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Kalanchoe.