Kalanchoe luciae Oricula

Kalanchoe 'Oricula' is an undemanding, colourful and decorative succulent plant. This variety boasts thick, fleshy leaves in shades of greyish-green to yellow-green, with reddish edges. The leaves have an unusual shape with slightly incurved edges. Depending on sun exposure, the red colouring of the edges may intensify, adding a vibrant touch to the whole plant. Indoors, this succulent takes up little space. It is therefore perfect for growing in small flats.

Belonging to the Crassulaceae family, Kalanchoe luciae 'Oricula' is a natural mutation of Kalanchoe luciae, native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. In its natural habitat, the species grows on granite outcrops in savannas and wooded areas. The 'Oricula' variety develops thick leaves, arranged in a basal rosette, measuring between 15 and 20 cm long and 8 to 10 cm wide. The leaves are opposite, sessile, with a smooth texture and incurved edges. These astonishing leaves have a greyish-green colour that can turn reddish under strong light. Flowering is rare indoors and occurs in spring in the form of terminal inflorescences composed of small tubular flowers in white to cream hues. This plant is semelparous, meaning the rosette dies after flowering, but it usually produces offsets near its crown which will ensure its progeny.​

Kalanchoe luciae 'Oricula' is an easy-to-grow succulent plant, well suited to indoor cultivation, which will enjoy being moved to a bright balcony in summer. It requires a very bright position, with a few hours of direct sunlight each day to intensify its foliage colours. A well-draining substrate is essential to avoid excess moisture: a mix of cactus compost, coarse sand and perlite. Water moderately, ensuring the substrate is completely dry before watering again. In winter, the plant enters a dormant period, and watering should be reduced to a bare minimum. Ideal temperatures for its growth are between 18 and 25°C, but it can tolerate drops to 5°C, as long as the substrate remains dry.

This succulent fits perfectly into xerophytic plant compositions. It pairs well with other Crassulaceae such as Echeveria, Sedum or Graptopetalum, and columnar cacti like Cereus peruvianus to mix shapes and textures. It can also be combined with Sansevieria or Aloe, for an elegant and low-maintenance composition. A terracotta container will aid drainage and limit the risk of root rot.