Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, also known as the Paddle Plant, Flapjacks, Desert Cabbage, or Red Pancake, is a popular and relatively low-maintenance succulent. It is native to dry, rocky areas in South Africa. 
 
Distinctive Appearance: It forms a basal rosette of large, rounded, fleshy, stalkless leaves, which are grayish-green with red margins and covered with a white powdery bloom. The leaves are paddle-shaped and stacked like pancakes, hence some of its common names. The red edges become more vibrant with sufficient sunlight.
Flowers: Mature plants may produce an upright flower spike (thyrse) up to 1 meter tall with clusters of small, greenish-yellow, sweetly-scented tubular flowers. However, it's important to note that the main rosette typically dies after flowering, though it often produces new plantlets (pups) from the base.
Low Maintenance: It is considered easy to care for, thriving on neglect and sunshine. This makes it a great choice for busy plant enthusiasts or beginners.
Air Purifying: Like many houseplants, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora helps filter airborne toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde. 
 
Light: Prefers bright light to full sun. Indoors, a sunny window is ideal. The red colour intensifies with more light. Avoid prolonged exposure to intense, direct sun on hot days, which can cause sunburn.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out. In winter, water very sparingly, perhaps every two months. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus and succulent mix, potentially with added perlite or grit.
Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 18°C and 26°C. It can tolerate short dips in temperature down to 5°C, but it's best to bring it indoors before the frost hits.
Feeding: Use a cactus fertiliser 2-3 times a year between April and September.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years to replenish the soil. 
 
Toxicity: All parts of the Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, especially the flowers, are known to be toxic when ingested by humans and animals. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, and in severe cases, more serious symptoms like changes in heart rate and rhythm.
Confusing Identity: Kalanchoe thyrsiflora is sometimes confused with the more commonly cultivated Kalanchoe luciae, also known as the Flapjack or Paddle Plant. While they share similar characteristics and care requirements, K. thyrsiflora's leaves are often held more vertically. 
 
This plant is supplied in a 10.5cm pot and the plant is approximately 15cm tall, including the pot.