Gremlin Walking Kalanchoe

Gremlin Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe synsepala 'Gremlin') is a large, bright green succulent that grows about 40cm tall and 30cm wide. Pairs of big toothed leaves fold half closed and are rimmed in maroon, with the same blush on their backs. The 'walking' in its name comes from long stems that carry baby plants at the tips, which root away from the parent.

Why you'll love it

• Leaves with an edge. The bright green leaves are toothed, almost folded, and outlined in maroon, which gives the plant real character.
• It multiplies itself. Long stems carry plantlets that root where they touch down, so one plant becomes a colony without any effort from you.
• Hardy once established. It is drought tolerant and forgiving, and happiest when it is not overwatered.
• Flexible about position. It does well in rockeries, in pots and indoors in bright light.
• White flowers on long stems. Mature plants may send up thin stems with white flowers as a bonus.

Where it works best

Rockeries and waterwise beds. Plant 30cm apart in gritty, free draining soil. Within a season or two the plantlets fill the gaps and form a loose, bright green carpet.

Pots and containers. A shallow terracotta bowl suits its habit. Keep it where it gets bright light but not hot midday sun, and turn the pot now and then for even growth.

Indoors. A bright windowsill suits it, and its low water needs suit anyone who forgets the indoor plants. It is toxic to pets, so place it out of their reach.

Growing Gremlin Walking Kalanchoe in Australia

Position and climate. Bright light is ideal, with shelter from the hottest sun. Like most kalanchoes it dislikes frost, so in cold districts grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover. Where winters are mild and frost free it can stay outdoors all year.

Soil. Plant in free draining, gritty soil. In pots use a cactus and succulent mix with a handful of coarse sand or fine gravel added.

Water and feed. Water sparingly, and only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering further in winter when temperatures drop. In the growing seasons, feed container plants with a slow release fertiliser.

Pruning. No regular pruning is needed. Lift off plantlets to pot up and share, or snip back stems that wander further than you want.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Gremlin Walking Kalanchoe as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once planted. Plants arrive small, but succulents like this settle fast and begin to spread within a season. Our grower supplies the tube, so it is not always in stock. A sold out tube means the grower has none today, and the notify button on the page will email you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• All kalanchoes in the range
• A guide to creating a waterwise garden
• Rockery plants for sunny, dry spots
• Succulents for hot climates

Common questions

Why is it called a walking kalanchoe?

Long stems grow out from the plant and form baby plants at their ends. The babies drop to the soil and root, so the clump slowly moves outward.

How much water does it need?

Very little. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch and ease off in winter. It should not sit wet, which makes it a good choice for waterwise gardens.

Is it safe around cats and dogs?

No. Kalanchoes are toxic to pets if eaten, so grow it on a high shelf, in a hanging pot or in a part of the garden animals cannot reach.