Crassulaceae
Kalanchoe orgyalis (Copper Spoons)
Kalanchoe orgyalis
A slow-growing, low-maintenance succulent that thrives in bright light with infrequent watering. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings and keep it in a well-draining succulent mix. Protect from frost and heavy humidity.
Every 14 days
Bright indirect
10° - 24°C
% - %
Categories
What is Copper Spoons?
Copper Spoons (Kalanchoe orgyalis) is a easy-care plant from the Crassulaceae family. Kalanchoe orgyalis, commonly known as Copper Spoons, is a striking succulent shrub native to Madagascar. Its thick, spoon-shaped leaves are covered in fine hairs and shift from silvery-green to a rich coppery-bronze as they mature and receive more sun. Left to grow, it forms a woody, multi-stemmed s...
Copper Spoons grows up to 1.8m, spread of 180cm, watering every 14 days, 10°C – 24°C. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Copper Spoons tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Copper Spoons?
TLDR: Copper Spoons needs Bright indirect, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between 10-24°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Copper Spoons?
Use the soak-and-dry method: water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again - roughly every 2 weeks in warm months and monthly in winter. Overwatering quickly leads to root rot.
How Much Light Does Copper Spoons Need?
Give it as much bright light as possible - full sun to partial shade. The more direct sun it gets, the richer the copper color of its leaves; low light causes stretching and dulls the color.
What Is the Best Soil for Copper Spoons?
Plant in a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix (sand, perlite or pumice with a little loam). A terracotta pot with a large drainage hole helps prevent excess moisture around the roots.
What Pot Should You Use for Copper Spoons?
Terracotta or unglazed clay pot with a large drainage hole
What Is Copper Spoons and Where Does It Come From?
Kalanchoe orgyalis, commonly known as Copper Spoons, is a striking succulent shrub native to Madagascar. Its thick, spoon-shaped leaves are covered in fine hairs and shift from silvery-green to a rich coppery-bronze as they mature and receive more sun. Left to grow, it forms a woody, multi-stemmed shrub up to 1.8 m (6 ft) tall, topped with clusters of small yellow flowers in spring.
How to Propagate Copper Spoons?
Stem Cutting
Avoid watering right after cutting - let the wound dry fully first to prevent rot.
- 1 Cut a healthy stem section about 10-13 cm long using clean, sharp scissors
- 2 Let the cutting callus over in a dry, shaded spot for 2-3 days
- 3 Place the callused end in a well-draining succulent mix
- 4 Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish, then water normally
Materials needed:
Leaf Cutting
Keep leaves out of direct sun while rooting to avoid shriveling.
- 1 Gently twist off a healthy, plump leaf from the stem
- 2 Let it callus for 1-2 days in a dry, shaded area
- 3 Lay the leaf on top of well-draining soil, callused end touching the mix
- 4 Mist lightly every few days until tiny roots and a new rosette appear
Materials needed:
Offset Division
Offsets establish faster than cuttings since they may already have roots.
- 1 Locate a small offset growing at the base of the mother plant
- 2 Carefully separate it with a clean cut, keeping some roots attached if possible
- 3 Let the offset callus for a day before planting
- 4 Pot in a well-draining mix and water sparingly until established
Materials needed:
How Big Does Copper Spoons Grow?
TLDR: Copper Spoons can reach up to 1.8m tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
1.8m
Spread
1.8m
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Like many kalanchoes, Copper Spoons is often associated with endurance and quiet resilience, reflecting the plant's ability to thrive in harsh, dry conditions.
Fun Facts
In parts of Brazil, Kalanchoe orgyalis is nicknamed 'cinnamon bear' for its fuzzy, cinnamon-colored leaves.
The leaf surface is covered in tiny star-shaped hairs (trichomes) that give it a velvety texture and help reflect intense sunlight.
It is native only to Madagascar, where it grows on dry, rocky slopes.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Kalanchoe orgyalis?
Is Kalanchoe orgyalis toxic to pets?
Why are not my Copper Spoons leaves turning copper?
How big does Kalanchoe orgyalis get?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
Choose & Compare
Sources & References
- Kalanchoe orgyalis Copper Spoons | Succulents and Sunshine
- Complete Copper Spoons Plant (Kalanchoe Orgyalis) Care Guide - Desert Garden
- Copper Spoon Plant Care & Growing Basics | PlantIn
- Kalanchoe orgyalis copper spoons care guide - House Plant House
- Kalanchoe Is Toxic To Dogs | Pet Poison Helpline
- Common Kalanchoe Diseases to Be Aware Of - The Practical Planter
