Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent plants in the Crassulaceae family. Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Madagascar, Kalanchoe species are popular houseplants and garden plants known for their attractive, fleshy leaves and vibrant, long-lasting flowers.
Care of Kalanchoe:
Light Requirements: Provide bright, indirect light for these plants when grown indoors. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but intense, hot sunlight should be avoided. Outdoors, they prefer bright, filtered light or partial shade.
Temperature: These plants prefer temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) and are sensitive to cold temperatures. Protect them from frost and freezing conditions.
Watering: Allow the top inch of the soil to dry between waterings. This plant is a succulent and can tolerate drought, so be cautious not to overwater, as it may lead to root rot.
Soil: Use well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix for these plants.
Fertilizer: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing in the winter when growth slows down.
Pruning: Trim off any spent flowers or leggy growth to promote bushier growth and better flower production.
Propagation: Kalanchoe plants can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or by removing offsets (baby plants) that develop around the base of the mother plant.
Charachtristics of Kalanchoe plants:
Appearance: Kalanchoe plants have thick, succulent leaves with various shapes, including ovate, lanceolate, or scalloped. The leaves can be green, gray, blue, or variegated, depending on the species and cultivar. These plants produce clusters of small, colorful flowers in shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, or white.
Indoor and Outdoor Plant: Kalanchoe can be grown as both indoor houseplants and outdoor garden plants, depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Toxicity: These plants contain toxins that can cause mild to moderate toxicity if ingested by pets or humans. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Kalanchoe plants are valued for their vibrant and long-lasting flowers, making them a popular choice for brightening up indoor spaces and adding color to gardens and landscapes. With their low-maintenance requirements and ability to tolerate dry conditions, they are suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.
