Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe)

Kalanchoe, also commonly known as Widow’s-thrill, Flaming Katy, Chandelier plant, or Mother of Thousands, is a genus of about 125 species of tropical, succulent flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae, mainly native to Madagascar and tropical Africa. These vibrant succulents are cherished for their easy-care nature, long-lasting blooms, and diverse foliage, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we understand the joy of cultivating thriving plants. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about Kalanchoe care, propagation, and troubleshooting. Whether you’re looking to buy Kalanchoe plants online, understand Kalanchoe varieties, or learn how to care for your existing plant, we have you covered. We aim to be the complete resource Kalanchoe.

Understanding Kalanchoe: Botany, History, and Benefits

Kalanchoe plants are more than just pretty faces; they have a fascinating botanical background, a rich history, and even offer some surprising benefits. This section delves into the science and story behind these popular succulents.

The Botanical Breakdown of Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe belongs to the Crassulaceae family, also known as the stonecrop family. This family is characterized by succulent plants that store water in their leaves, stems, and roots, making them well-adapted to arid environments. A key characteristic of Kalanchoe (and other Crassulaceae members) is their Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis.

Common Names	Widow’s-thrill, Flaming Katy, Chandelier plant, Mother of Thousands, Panda Plant, Paddle Plant, Life Plant, Air Plant, and many others depending on species.
Botanical Name	Kalanchoe spp. (spp. indicates multiple species within the genus)
Family	Crassulaceae (Stonecrop Family)
Genus	Kalanchoe
Species	Over 125 different species, including blossfeldiana, pinnata, tomentosa, daigremontiana, thyrsiflora, and many more.
Origin	Primarily Madagascar and tropical Africa, with some species naturalized in other tropical regions.
Life Cycle	Perennial (lives for more than two years)
Plant Type	Succulent (stores water in leaves, stems, and/or roots)
Hardiness Zone	Generally zones 10-12 (can be grown outdoors year-round). Most commonly grown as houseplants in other zones.
Sunlight	Bright, indirect light is ideal. Some species tolerate more direct sun than others. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth. Excessive direct sun can cause sunburn.
Maintenance	Generally low. Requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering.
Water	Low. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of problems.
Drainage	Well-Drained. Essential to prevent root rot. Use cactus/succulent potting mix or amend regular potting mix with perlite or pumice.
Spacing	Varies depending on species. Smaller varieties can be spaced 6-12 inches apart. Larger varieties may need more space.
Flowering Period	Varies depending on species and growing conditions. Many Kalanchoe blossfeldiana cultivars are forced to bloom year-round. Others typically bloom in winter or spring. Short-day conditions (longer periods of darkness) often trigger flowering.
Height	Varies greatly by species. From a few inches (e.g., some K. tomentosa) to several feet (e.g., K. pinnata or K. daigremontiana).
Growth Rate	Generally moderate. Some species, like K. daigremontiana (Mother of Thousands), can grow and spread rapidly.
Flower Color	Wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and bi-colors. Varies by species and cultivar.
Stem Color	Typically green, but can vary. Some species have reddish or brownish stems.
Flower Benefit	Long bloom season (for many varieties, especially K. blossfeldiana). Showy, colorful flowers.
Leaf Benefit	Various leaf shapes, sizes, and textures. Some are very showy.
Garden Style	Suitable for rock gardens, succulent gardens, container gardens, and as houseplants.
Uses	Primarily ornamental (houseplants, container plants, landscape plants in suitable climates). Some traditional medicinal uses (but use caution and consult a professional). Potential for research in pharmaceuticals, bioremediation, and other fields.
Toxicity	Toxic to pets (cats, dogs, birds) and humans if ingested. Contains cardiac glycosides.
Invasive Potential	Some species, particularly those that reproduce via plantlets (e.g., K. daigremontiana), can be invasive in certain environments. Check local regulations before planting outdoors.
Air purifying	Yes.
Humidity	40 – 60 %.
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral, 6.1 – 7.3
Soil type	Well-drained.

CAM Photosynthesis Explained:

Feature	C3 Photosynthesis (Most Plants)	CAM Photosynthesis (Kalanchoe, etc.)
Stomata Open	During the day	During the night
CO2 Uptake	During the day	During the night
Water Loss	Higher	Lower
Adaptation	Moderate climates	Arid climates
Initial CO2 Fixation	Rubisco	PEP carboxylase

This adaptation allows Kalanchoe to open their stomata (pores on the leaves) at night to take in carbon dioxide, minimizing water loss during the hot day. The CO2 is stored as malic acid and then used for photosynthesis during the day, even with the stomata closed.

Kalanchoe species exhibit a wide range of growth habits, from small, compact plants to larger, shrub-like varieties. Their leaves are typically thick, fleshy, and often have scalloped or serrated edges. The flowers are usually small, tubular, and clustered in showy inflorescences. Flower colors range from vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows to pinks, whites, and even bi-colors.

A Brief History and Cultural Significance

Many Kalanchoe species are native to Madagascar, a biodiversity hotspot with a unique flora and fauna. Others originate from various parts of Africa, and some have naturalized in other tropical regions worldwide.

Historically, Kalanchoe has been used in traditional medicine in various cultures. Kalanchoe pinnata, for example, has been used to treat a variety of ailments, from headaches and wounds to respiratory infections. However, it’s crucial to note that scientific evidence supporting all traditional uses is limited, and ingesting any part of a Kalanchoe plant can be toxic.

In some cultures, Kalanchoe is associated with good luck and prosperity, making it a popular gift. The plant’s resilience and ability to thrive with minimal care also symbolize endurance and lasting affection.

Benefits Beyond Beauty: Air Purification and More

While the vibrant blooms are the main draw, Kalanchoe offers additional benefits. Like many other succulent plants, Kalanchoe can help improve indoor air quality. Studies, such as the NASA Clean Air Study, have shown that certain plants can remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are commonly found in household products.

NASA Clean Air Study (Partial List of Pollutants Removed):

Pollutant	Source Examples	Potential Health Effects
Formaldehyde	Pressed wood products, furniture, carpets	Eye, nose, and throat irritation
Benzene	Paints, glues, detergents	Drowsiness, dizziness, headaches
Trichloroethylene	Dry cleaning, printing inks, paints	Liver and kidney damage

While Kalanchoe wasn’t specifically tested in the NASA study, many other succulents were, and it’s reasonable to assume that Kalanchoe shares similar air-purifying capabilities. The CAM photosynthesis process, which involves absorbing CO2 at night, also contributes to a fresher indoor environment.

Beyond air purification, the simple act of caring for a plant can have therapeutic benefits. Studies have shown that interacting with plants can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost feelings of well-being.

Popular Kalanchoe Varieties and Where to Find Them

The Kalanchoe genus boasts a wide array of species and cultivars, each with its unique charm. Here are some of the most popular varieties, along with tips on where to find them.

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana: The Classic Choice

This is arguably the most widely recognized Kalanchoe variety, often sold simply as “Flowering Kalanchoe” or “Florist Kalanchoe.” K. blossfeldiana is prized for its long-lasting, vibrant blooms that come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. The flowers are typically small and clustered in dense umbels, creating a showy display. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and scalloped.

Bloom Time: Typically winter and spring, but can be forced to bloom year-round with proper light manipulation.
Size: Usually 6-12 inches tall and wide.
Care Level: Easy.

Kalanchoe pinnata: The Miracle Leaf

Also known as the “Air Plant,” “Life Plant,” or “Goethe Plant,” K. pinnata is famous for its remarkable ability to reproduce from its leaves. Tiny plantlets develop along the margins of the leaves, and these can detach and grow into new plants. The leaves are light green, fleshy, and often have reddish edges. The flowers are bell-shaped and greenish-pink.

Bloom Time: Spring and summer.
Size: Can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Care Level: Easy. *It is used to treat kidney stones, according to one 2014 research from Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.

Kalanchoe tomentosa: The Panda Plant

This charming succulent is instantly recognizable by its fuzzy, silvery-green leaves with brown spots along the edges, resembling a panda’s markings. K. tomentosa is a slow-growing plant that forms a small, shrub-like shape. It rarely blooms indoors.

Bloom Time: Rarely blooms indoors.
Size: Usually 6-12 inches tall.
Care Level: Easy.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana: Mother of Thousands

Similar to K. pinnata, K. daigremontiana is known for its prolific production of plantlets along its leaf margins. The leaves are long, narrow, and triangular, with a bluish-green color and often have purple spots on the underside. The flowers are bell-shaped and grayish-pink. This plant is considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid reproduction.

Bloom Time: Late winter and spring.
Size: Can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Care Level: Easy, but be mindful of its spreading habit.

Kalanchoe thyrsiflora: The Paddle Plant

Also known as the “Flapjack Plant” or “Desert Cabbage,” K. thyrsiflora has large, rounded, flat leaves that are often reddish-green, especially when exposed to bright light. The leaves are stacked tightly together, resembling a paddle or flapjack. The flowers are yellow and fragrant.

Bloom Time: Spring.
Size: Can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Care Level: Easy.

Essential Kalanchoe Care: Light, Water, Soil, and More

Providing the right care for your Kalanchoe is key to ensuring its health, longevity, and vibrant blooms. This section covers the essential aspects of Kalanchoe care, from light and water to soil and fertilization.

Light Requirements: Finding the Sweet Spot

Kalanchoe plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They need at least 4-6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day to maintain their compact growth and produce flowers.

Ideal Light:
- East-facing window: Provides gentle morning sun.
- West-facing window: Provides afternoon sun, but may need to be filtered with a sheer curtain during the hottest part of the day.
- South-facing window: Provides the most intense light, but may be too much for some Kalanchoe varieties without some shading.
- Bright, indirect light from a grow light: A good option if natural light is limited.
Insufficient Light:
- Leggy growth (etiolation): The plant stretches towards the light source, resulting in long, weak stems and sparse foliage.
- Lack of blooms: The plant may not produce flowers if it doesn’t receive enough light.
- Pale or dull leaf color.
Excessive Light:
- Sunburn: The leaves may develop brown or reddish spots, especially on the edges.
- Wilting: The plant may wilt if it’s exposed to too much direct sunlight, especially during hot weather.

Watering Wisely: Avoiding Overwatering and Underwatering

Kalanchoe, like other succulents, is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It’s crucial to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Watering Schedule:
- Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry to the touch. This may be every 1-2 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer) and less frequently during the winter.
- Use your finger to check the soil moisture level. Insert your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- Consider the pot size and material. Smaller pots and terracotta pots dry out faster than larger pots and plastic pots.
Watering Technique:
- Water deeply, allowing the water to drain out of the pot’s drainage holes.
- Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal problems.
- Empty any excess water from the saucer or tray underneath the pot.
Signs of Overwatering:
- Yellowing leaves, especially lower leaves.
- Soft, mushy stems or leaves.
- Root rot (brown, mushy roots).
- Drooping leaves.
Signs of Underwatering:
- Wilting leaves.
- Shriveled leaves.
- Dry, crispy leaves.
- Slow growth.

Soil and Potting Mix: Creating the Perfect Drainage

Kalanchoe needs a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A standard cactus or succulent mix is a good choice.

Ideal Potting Mix:
- Cactus/succulent mix: These mixes typically contain ingredients like perlite, pumice, and coarse sand to improve drainage.
- DIY mix: You can create your own mix by combining potting soil with perlite or pumice in a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio.
Avoid:
- Heavy potting mixes that retain too much moisture.
- Garden soil, which is too dense for container plants.
Potting:
- Choose a pot with drainage holes.
- Terracotta pots are a good option because they allow the soil to dry out more quickly.
- Repot your Kalanchoe when it becomes root-bound (roots circling the bottom of the pot).

Temperature and Humidity: Mimicking Kalanchoe’s Natural Habitat

Kalanchoe prefers average room temperatures and can tolerate relatively low humidity.

Ideal Temperature:
- 65-80°F (18-27°C) during the day.
- Slightly cooler temperatures at night.
Avoid:
- Temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
- Sudden temperature fluctuations.
- Drafts from windows or doors.
Humidity:
- Kalanchoe can tolerate average household humidity levels (around 40-50%).
- If the air is very dry, you can increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (make sure the pot is not sitting in the water).

Fertilizing: Boosting Blooms and Growth

Kalanchoe doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer, but a light feeding during the active growing season can promote healthy growth and flowering.

Fertilizer Type:
- Balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) diluted to half strength.
- Cactus/succulent fertilizer.
Fertilizing Schedule:
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer.
- Do not fertilize during the winter when the plant is dormant.
Avoid:
- Over-fertilizing, which can damage the roots.
- Using fertilizers with high nitrogen content, which can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning and Deadheading: Maintaining Shape and Encouraging Flowers

Pruning and deadheading can help keep your Kalanchoe looking its best and encourage more blooms.

Pruning:
- Prune leggy stems to maintain a compact shape.
- Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems.
- Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Deadheading:
- Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
- Cut the flower stem back to the base of the plant.

Kalanchoe Propagation: Multiplying Your Collection

One of the joys of growing Kalanchoe is that it’s relatively easy to propagate, allowing you to expand your collection or share plants with friends. Here are several methods for propagating Kalanchoe.

Stem Cuttings: The Easiest Method

This is the most common and straightforward method for propagating most Kalanchoe varieties.

Take a Cutting: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut a healthy stem that is about 3-4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few leaves at the top.
Allow Callus Formation: Let the cutting dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus (a dry, protective layer). This helps prevent rot.
Plant the Cutting: Dip the calloused end in rooting hormone (optional, but can speed up the process). Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with well-draining potting mix (cactus/succulent mix).
Water Lightly: Water the cutting lightly and place it in a bright, indirect location.
Wait for Roots: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Roots should develop within a few weeks. You can gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, which indicates root growth.
Transplant Once rooted and start growing, you may now transplant it.

Leaf Cuttings: A Slightly More Challenging Approach

Some Kalanchoe varieties, such as K. tomentosa, can be propagated from leaf cuttings, although the success rate may be lower than with stem cuttings.

Remove a Leaf: Gently twist or cut a healthy leaf from the stem.
Allow Callus Formation: Let the leaf dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus.
Place on Soil: Place the calloused leaf on top of well-draining potting mix. You can partially bury the cut end, but it’s not necessary.
Mist Lightly: Mist the leaf and soil lightly every few days.
Wait for Roots and Plantlets: New roots and tiny plantlets should develop at the base of the leaf within a few weeks or months.
Separate Plantlets: Once the plantlets are large enough to handle, carefully separate them and pot them up individually.

Plantlets (for Mother of Thousands): Nature’s Gift

Kalanchoe daigremontiana and K. pinnata produce tiny plantlets along the margins of their leaves. These plantlets are essentially ready-made miniature plants.

Collect Plantlets: Gently remove the plantlets from the mother plant. They may detach easily, or you may need to use a small knife or tweezers.
Pot Up Plantlets: Plant the plantlets in small pots filled with well-draining potting mix.
Water Lightly: Water the plantlets lightly and place them in a bright, indirect location.

Seed Propagation: For the Patient Gardener

Kalanchoe can also be propagated from seeds, although this method is less common and takes longer.

Collect Seeds: Collect seeds from dried flower heads. The seeds are very small.
Sow Seeds: Sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix. Do not cover the seeds, as they need light to germinate.
Keep Moist: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil.
Provide Warmth and Light: Place the seed tray in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
Germination: Germination can take several weeks or even months.
Transplant Seedlings: Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual pots.

Troubleshooting Common Kalanchoe Problems

Even with the best care, Kalanchoe plants can sometimes experience problems. This section covers some common issues and how to address them.

Drooping Leaves: Diagnosing and Addressing the Cause

Drooping leaves can be a sign of several different problems, including:

Overwatering: This is the most common cause of drooping leaves in Kalanchoe. The leaves may also appear yellow or soft.
- Solution: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Check for root rot and repot if necessary.
Underwatering: If the leaves are shriveled and dry, the plant may be underwatered.
- Solution: Water thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out of the pot’s drainage holes.
Temperature Stress: Sudden temperature changes or exposure to cold drafts can cause drooping leaves.
- Solution: Move the plant to a location with a more stable temperature.
Pest Infestation: Certain pests, such as mealybugs or aphids, can weaken the plant and cause drooping leaves.
- Solution: Inspect the plant carefully for pests and treat accordingly (see below).

Leggy Growth: Understanding Etiolation and How to Fix It

Leggy growth, or etiolation, occurs when the plant doesn’t receive enough light. The stems stretch towards the light source, resulting in long, weak growth and sparse foliage.

Solution:
- Move the plant to a brighter location.
- Prune the leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
- Consider using a grow light if natural light is limited.

Pests and Diseases: Identifying and Treating Common Issues

Kalanchoe is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by the following:

Mealybugs: These small, white, cottony insects suck sap from the plant, weakening it.
- Treatment:
  - Wipe off mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
  - Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: These small, green or black insects also suck sap from the plant.
- Treatment:
  - Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids.
  - Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests create fine webbing on the plant and cause yellowing or stippling of the leaves.
- Treatment:
  - Increase humidity around the plant.
  - Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root Rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage.
- Treatment:
  - Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots.
  - Trim away any brown, mushy roots.
  - Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining potting mix.
  - Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
- Treatment:
  - Remove the affected part of the plant.

Lack of Blooms: Encouraging Your Kalanchoe to Flower

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, in particular, is known for its long-lasting blooms, but sometimes it needs a little encouragement to flower.

Light: Ensure the plant is receiving enough bright, indirect light (at least 4-6 hours per day).
Dark Period: Kalanchoe is a short-day plant, meaning it needs a period of darkness to trigger flowering. In the fall, provide the plant with 14 hours of darkness and 10 hours of bright, indirect light each day for about 6-8 weeks. This can be achieved by placing the plant in a dark room or closet for part of the day.
Temperature: Cooler temperatures (around 60-65°F/15-18°C) can also encourage flowering.
Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength during the spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

Kalanchoe and Pets: Safety Considerations

It’s important to note that Kalanchoe is considered toxic to pets, including cats, dogs, and birds. The toxic compounds are cardiac glycosides, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Drooling
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Lethargy
Weakness
Abnormal heart rate
Tremors
Seizures

If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a Kalanchoe plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

Keep Kalanchoe plants out of reach of pets.

H2: Frequently Asked Kalanchoe Questions (FAQ)

Q: How often should I water my Kalanchoe?
A: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. This may be every 1-2 weeks during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.
Q: What kind of light does Kalanchoe need?
A: Kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect light. At least 4-6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day is ideal.
Q: How can I get my Kalanchoe to bloom?
A: Provide plenty of bright, indirect light, and ensure a period of darkness (14 hours) in the fall to trigger flowering.
Q: Is Kalanchoe toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Kalanchoe is toxic to cats, dogs, and birds. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Q: Can Kalanchoe be grown outdoors?
A: Kalanchoe can be grown outdoors in warm climates (USDA zones 10-12). In cooler climates, it’s best grown as a houseplant.
Q: How do I propagate Kalanchoe?
A: Kalanchoe can be easily propagated from stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or plantlets (for Mother of Thousands).
Q: Why my Kalanchoe is not blooming? A: Kalanchoe not blooming is caused by many reasons. You need to provide plenty of bright, indirect light, and ensure a period of darkness (14 hours) in the fall to trigger flowering.

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