Medusa Elk Horn Kalanchoe

Medusa Elk Horn Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe 'Medusa') is a sculptural succulent that grows to about 1m tall and wide. An upright rosette of large, flat, grey-green leaves edged in dark red branches into jagged, antler-like shapes as the plant matures. It is a striking choice for waterwise beds and big containers in frost-free gardens.

Why you'll love it

• Nothing else looks like it. Instead of a neat round rosette, the leaves branch and fork like antlers, which gives a plant with real presence.
• Dark red edges. The grey-green leaves are outlined in red, and full sun brings out more colour.
• Big for a succulent. It reaches about 1m in both directions, enough to anchor a bed or fill a large pot on its own.
• Waterwise and easy. A drink every fortnight in warm weather keeps it lush, and it almost dries out over winter.
• Plenty to share. It produces young plants, or pups, around the base that you can pot up and give away.

Where it works best

Waterwise garden beds. Plant 1m apart in a sunny, free draining bed. Give each plant space, because its branching shape needs room to be seen.

Large pots and containers. One plant in a big, heavy pot makes a bold entry or courtyard feature, and the pot can be moved under cover in a cold spell. It is toxic to pets, so keep it away from places where they chew.

Gravel gardens and courtyards. Its grey tones suit gravel, stone and rendered walls, and it holds its shape with almost no maintenance.

Growing Medusa Elk Horn Kalanchoe in Australia

Position and climate. Plant in full sun, where it develops the best colour. It is for frost-free areas and must be protected from single digit temperatures (anything under 10C), so it suits tropical and subtropical gardens outdoors. Elsewhere, grow it in a large pot and bring it under cover for winter.

Soil. Free draining or even rocky soil, in a pot or the garden. Keep the crown above the soil level so water cannot collect around it.

Water and feed. Water fortnightly in the warmer months to keep plants looking lush, then reduce in winter so the soil almost dries out. Fertilise in spring with an organic liquid feed mixed at half strength.

Pruning. None is needed. When a potted plant becomes crowded with pups, lift the young plants out and re-pot them or share them with neighbours.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Medusa Elk Horn Kalanchoe as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once planted. It arrives as a small plant, and the antler shape builds slowly as it grows toward its full 1m. The tube is supplied by our grower and is sometimes unavailable. When it shows as sold out the grower has none, and the notify button on the page emails you the day the tube 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

• See every kalanchoe we sell
• A guide to creating a waterwise garden
• Drought tolerant plants
• Succulents for gardens and pots

Common questions

Can it handle cold weather?

Not well. It needs protection from anything under 10C, so grow it outdoors only in frost-free areas, and use a pot you can move under cover elsewhere.

How big does it grow?

About 1m tall and 1m wide. The leaves branch further as the plant ages, so allow space for the antler shape to develop without crowding.

Is it safe for pets?

No. Kalanchoes are toxic to cats and dogs if eaten, so keep this one out of reach or in a part of the garden pets do not visit.