Kalanchoe tomentosa -Chocolate Soldier Care Guide 🍫

Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is also known as Panda Plant or Chocolate Soldier Kalanchoe, and it's a fuzzy succulent with soft, velvety leaves with it's tips a deep chocolate brown. Native to Madagascar, it's a slow growing succulent that forms upright stems covered in silvery green, fuzz that looks like it’s been dusted with cocoa powder on top. It’s beautiful, tough, and downright adorable!

What Makes It Special?

The texture. The fuzzy leaves are covered in fine hairs that help it retain moisture, giving it a soft, almost felt look. The brown tips add dramatic flare, and the plant grows upright so it makes it stand out among flatter succulents. It’s a favorite for collectors and beginners because it’s both unique and easy to care for- win win!

How to Care for It

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight is best. It can tolerate direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun that might scorch the fuzzy leaves. Indoors, place it near a bright window, east or west facing is ideal.

Water

Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water deeply (water at soil level) then allow excess water to drain. The fuzzy leaves trap water easily, so avoid misting or overhead watering, which can cause rot. In winter, water sparingly.

Soil

Use a fast draining cactus or succulent mix. For extra protection, add perlite or pumice to keep air flowing around the roots.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F. It’s not frost hardy, so bring it indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F.

Fertilizer

Feed lightly once in spring and once in summer with a diluted succulent fertilizer (¼ strength). Skip fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.

Blooming

While not a heavy bloomer, mature plants may produce small, tubular brown/orange flowers in late winter or early spring. 

Pet Safe?

No. Kalanchoe tomentosa is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets. Although not usually life threatening. 

Humidity

Keep it dry. Average household humidity is perfect, and high humidity should be avoided.

Propagation

Easily propagated from leaf or stem cuttings. Let cuttings callous for a few days before planting in dry soil. Water sparingly until roots form.

Why We Picked This Plant

November felt like the perfect time to feature this fuzzy cutie. The Kalanchoe tomentosa, brings deep brown edges and soft, cozy textures that fit right in with the fall season (blankets anyone?!). As the weather cools, its warm tones show and this succulent fits right in! It’s hardy, low maintenance, and built for slower days, just like this time of year.

If this fuzzy warrior showed up in your Succly Box, congratulations, your collection just got way more huggable and cozy.

Snap a pic, tag @UnboxMySuccly, and show us where your Chocolate Soldier stands guard. Bonus points if it’s basking in a sunbeam or hanging out with your other fuzzy friends.