Kalanchoe tomentosa, commonly known as Pussy Ears or Panda Plant, is a perennial succulent native to the arid environments of Madagascar. It typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and a width of 12 inches (30 cm). The plant is characterized by its fuzzy, silver-green leaves with brownish-red margins, giving it a distinctive appearance. The leaves are covered with fine hairs, contributing to its common name ’Pussy Ears.’ The flowers, which are less conspicuous compared to the foliage, are bell-shaped and can exhibit yellow, green, and orange hues during their blooming season in the spring and winter.

Kalanchoe tomentosa is valued for its unique foliage texture and is often used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, container gardens, and as a houseplant. It has a slow to moderate growth rate and is particularly easy to maintain due to its low water requirements. This succulent is drought-tolerant and prefers a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. It can thrive in both full sun and part shade, making it versatile for various garden settings. Cultivars like ’Golden Girl,’ ’Chocolate Soldier,’ ’Black Tie,’ and ’Teddy Bear’ offer additional variety in leaf color and form. The Royal Horticultural Society has recognized Kalanchoe tomentosa with its Award of Garden Merit, indicating its excellence for garden use. Potential problems include overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and mealybugs or scale insects that may infest the leaves.CC BY-SA 4.0