Paddle Plant (Flapjacks) problems — and how to fix them

Too little light makes the rosette open up, lean toward the window, and lose its red blush. Move it to the brightest spot you have and rotate the pot regularly; behead and re-root a badly stretched rosette to restart compact growth.

The most common killer, caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Soft, translucent, yellowing leaves signal too much moisture. Let the soil dry fully between waterings, use a gritty mix, and never leave the pot in a saucer of water.

White cottony mealybugs hide in leaf joints and the crown; aphids cluster on flower stalks. Dab mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol and treat repeat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem.

The pale, powdery farina (natural wax bloom) on the leaves is protective and does not grow back once rubbed off. Handle the plant by the base and avoid wiping or misting the foliage so it keeps its frosted, colourful look.

This is normal, not a disease. Kalanchoe luciae is monocarpic, so the parent rosette declines once it blooms. Let the offsets at the base mature, then separate and pot them up to keep the plant going.

Moving a plant straight from low light into intense summer sun can scorch leaves, leaving bleached or brown patches. Acclimatise it gradually over one to two weeks and provide light shade during peak afternoon heat in hot climates.