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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-propagate-plants). - __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. Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/) and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community - and the world - a better place. Panda plants are low-maintenance houseplants with unique, velvety leaves.