SKU: 27451104126
kalanchoe chocolate soldier succulent

kalanchoe chocolate soldier succulent Chocolate Soldier Plant – Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’

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Description

kalanchoe chocolate soldier succulent Chocolate Soldier Plant – Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’Introducing the chocolate soldier plant, known as Kalanchoe tomentosa Chocolate Soldier, which is an extremely popular variety of the Kalanchoe, opens in a new tab genus. Native to Madagascar, it has several other common names such as Panda plant, Pussy ears, plush plant, cocoon plant, and velvet leaf Kalanchoe. This plant has earned its common name, chocolate soldier, due to the velvety texture and brownish color of its leaves, which resemble the

Introducing the chocolate soldier plant, known as Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier, which is an extremely popular variety of the Kalanchoe, opens in a new tab genus. Native to Madagascar, it has several other common names such as Panda plant, Pussy ears, plush plant, cocoon plant, and velvet leaf Kalanchoe.   

This plant has earned its common name, chocolate soldier, due to the velvety texture and brownish color of its leaves, which resemble the color of chocolate.  

One of the distinctive features of the Chocolate soldier plant is its fuzzy, elongated leaves that are covered in tiny hairs, giving them a soft and velvety appearance. The leaves are thick and spoon-shaped, with serrated edges, and are arranged in a rosette pattern. As the plant matures, it develops a woody stem, adding to its unique charm. 


When grown outdoors, it can also serve as a ground cover or add texture to rock gardens. The chocolate soldier plant can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

It is a relatively compact plant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces. People often confuse the chocolate soldier with the Panda plant.

But what distinguishes 'Chocolate Soldier' from the others is the eye-catching deep maroon or chocolate-brown hue along the leaf tips and edges.

In comparison to the panda plant, this succulent variety's leaves are narrower. The plant has an enticing appearance due to the lovely contrast created by the black borders and its fuzzy grey-green base. 

The flowers of the chocolate soldier plant bloom in the summer with small, tubular flowers. These flowers are typically red in color and appear on tall, upright stalks called inflorescences. However, it's worth noting that the plant's main ornamental value lies in its leaves rather than its flowers. 

When it comes to propagation, the Chocolate soldier plant can be easily propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Simply take a healthy stem or leaf cutting and allow it to dry for a few days. Then, place the cutting in well-draining soil and provide it with bright, indirect light. With proper chocolate soldier plant care and patience, the cutting will develop roots and grow into a new plant. 

Watering Needs 

Like many other succulents, opens in a new tab, the Chocolate Soldier Plant has adapted to survive in arid conditions, which means it has low to moderate watering needs. When it comes to watering your Chocolate soldier plant, it's important to strike a balance. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, while underwatering can cause the leaves to shrivel and drop. 

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, you can water your plant every 1-2 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. In the winter months, when the plant is in a period of dormancy, you can reduce watering frequency to once every 2-4 weeks. 

As a general rule of thumb, it's best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. To check soil moisture, insert a finger about an inch into the soil, and if it feels dry, it needs watering. When you do water, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil and allow any excess water to drain away. Because it can cause root rot, don't let the plant stand in standing water. 

Remember, it's always better to underwater than overwater your Chocolate Soldiers Kalanchoe tomentosa. They are quite resilient and can tolerate drought conditions better than excessive moisture. Observing the plant's leaves and soil moisture levels will help you determine the right watering schedule for your Kalanchoe Chocolate Soldier Plants. 

Light Requirements 

When growing indoors, the Chocolate Soldier Plant prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in a spot where it can receive a good amount of bright, filtered sunlight throughout the day. Placing it near a window that faces east, or west is often ideal, as it allows the plant to benefit from the morning or afternoon sun without the intensity of direct sunlight. If you notice that the plant is stretching or leaning toward the light source, it may be an indication that it needs more light. 

If you decide this great ground cover outdoors, it generally enjoys bright, indirect light outdoors as well. However, it's important to protect it from intense, direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or become scorched. Providing some shade or placing the plant in an area with dappled sunlight can help protect it from excessive heat and sun exposure. 

Remember, finding the right balance of light is key to the health of your plant. Observe how the plant responds to its current lighting conditions and make adjustments as needed. With the right amount of light, your chocolate soldier succulent can thrive and display its beautiful, fuzzy leaves. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

When it comes to soil, the Chocolate Soldier Plant prefers well-draining soil that allows excess water to flow out easily. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil, opens in a new tab that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

As for fertilizing, the Kalanchoe tomentosa Chocolate soldier succulent doesn't require frequent feeding. During the growing season in the spring, you can fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer diluted to half strength. This will provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming the plant. During the dormant period in winter, you can reduce or stop fertilizing altogether, as the plant's growth slows down. 

Remember, it's always important to follow the instructions and avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil and cause damage to the plant. Additionally, it's a good practice to water the plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent any potential burning of the roots. 

Hardiness Zones & More 

When growing indoors, your chocolate soldier thrives in average room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It's important to keep it away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, as it prefers a stable environment. As for humidity, this succulent plant can adapt to normal household humidity levels, but it appreciates a bit of extra humidity. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier if needed. 

For outdoor cultivation, the chocolate soldier plant is generally suitable for outdoor cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. In these zones, the plant can tolerate mild frost but may require protection during colder winter months. If you live in a colder climate, it's best to grow the Kalanchoe chocolate soldier plant as a houseplant or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter. 

Remember, providing the right temperature and humidity conditions, whether indoors or outdoors, is essential for the health and well-being of your chocolate soldier plant. With proper care, it will reward you with its unique and fuzzy foliage! 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, the Chocolate soldier plant is a unique and charming popular ground cover succulent with fuzzy, dark brownish leaves that resemble the color of chocolate. It can grow from 8 inches to 2 feet in height, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces. This plant is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in bright, indirect light. It prefers well-drained soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. With its distinctive features and easy-care requirements, the Chocolate Soldier Plant is a delightful addition to any plant collection. 

Give it a try and enjoy the beauty and intrigue this unique Kalanchoe tomentosa Chocolate soldier plant brings to your home or garden! 

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Anjelica
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★★★★★ 4
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This is a really good toy overall, especially if you have dogs that love to chew. My dogs were immediately into it—they play with it nonstop, toss it around, and stay entertained for a while, which I love. It definitely holds up better than most toys we’ve tried. The only reason I’m giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is because over time it does start to fray a bit and gets a little rough, especially with heavy chewing. It’s not completely indestructible, but it still lasts longer than a lot of other toys. Overall, still a great buy and I would recommend it if your dogs need something tough but fun!
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Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2026
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Lina
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 5
Worthwhile!
Size: Medium/Large, Color: Turkey Day Drumstick - Large
I have a small dog with a really strong bite! Usually have to buy toys that are meant for bigger dogs. This has lasted us for what feels like forever. It does sound very heavy when dropped! My dog loves it though! Would definitely recommend!
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Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2026
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Kelly
Lowell, US
★★★★★ 5
Ohhh Mr. Iguana
Size: Medium/Large, Color: Illana the Iguana - Large
Mr. Iguana is a house favorite! I got my first one of these in a barkbox and my dog loved it so much, i went on the hunt for another one. Amazon saved the day! I own about 7 of these now. They are prefect for dogs just love to chew, they hold up great! And they are heavy duty, super easy to clean! My dogs are very happy, great value for the money! Doesn't have a smell, vibrant colors! Noise level is quiet, minus my dogs chewing !
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Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2025
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sec682
Port Orchard, US
★★★★★ 3
Not for strong chewers
Size: Medium/Large, Color: Dog Ness Monster - Large
Initially, I really liked this for my dog. She is about 8 months old and still loves to chew and destroys most toys in a few minutes. When we got this, it seemed like it would hold up for a while despite being clearly gnawed on. Unfortunately, once she focused on the softer "water" portion of the toy, that is where things went downhill with this toy. After a few short chew sessions, she was tearing chunks out of it. We had purchased a replacement since she liked the original so much, and after about 5 minutes with the replacement, she had taken enough out of the blue section that we immediately threw that one out as well. Overall while the green portion held up, the blue didn't. I can't recommend this for strong chewers.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 8, 2025
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Gary Hugo
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 4
Definitely not indestructable
Size: Medium/Large, Color: Dog Ness Monster - Large, Size: Medium/Large, Color: Dog Ness Monster - Large
I have a 1-year-old toy fox terrier (Rocky, pictured). He has been chewing on this toy for seven months now; it is one of his favorites. He has been unable to seriously damage the "ocean" portion of this toy, but as you can see from the provided image, the sea serpent has not faired that well. It is missing its snout and smaller portions of the humps. My guess is that the advertiser images showing much larger dogs with "like new" versions of the toy are just that...NEW AND UNCHEWED. I have not had to clean up bits of this toy from my floor, so I assume Rocky has been swallowing them. My hope is that the yellow material of the serpent is not chemically dangerous when exposed to digestive fluids. Rocky easily destroys plush toys in a matter of days if not hours and, consumed pieces of a small microfiber blanket that he liked to toss around and play tug-of-war with (past tense as he destroyed it and has since been trashed after I began finding feces-stained undigested pieces of it lying around). Since this toy has survived seven months and has remained recognizable, I have to agree it is durable. Just beware, if my small toy fox terrier can damage the toy as pictured, expect your large breed chewer to do similar or worse damage. Also, the toy is very heavy! When Rocky drops it down a flight of stairs, it makes a MAJOR thud at the bottom, and sometimes makes me wonder if it might crack the large tile at the bottom. I cautiously recommend the product. Note the yellow frisbee in Rocky's picture. It is only a few months old and surprisingly has not suffered any chew damage despite substantial abuse. It appears to bend in the wind like a proverbial reed, evading damage by yielding to pressure.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 5, 2024

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