A brief introduction
Kalanchoe is well-known for its clusters of flowers, wide variety of colors, and thick leaves that store water, making it a hardy plant. Native to Madagascar and certain regions of Africa, it has become a global favorite due to its ornamental beauty and low maintenance requirements. With over 200 species, Kalanchoe can be found in nearly every unique color imaginable.
Popular varieties
Kalanchoe daigremontiana ~ Recognized for its special plantlets that grow at the edges of its leaves. It's also Known as, Mother of Thousands.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ~ This familiar variation is celebrated for its bright, colorful flowers in shades of red, pink, yellow, and orange.
Kalanchoe tomentosa ~ Known for its fuzzy, silvery leaves edged with brown.
~ The Symbolic meanings of Kalanchoe ~
Kalanchoe is often associated with resilience, endurance, and prosperity due to its hardy nature and ability to thrive with minimal care. Its cheerful flowers are said to symbolize longevity and lasting affection.
Plant care
Soil
Kalanchoe grows best in well-draining sandy or loamy soil. A cactus or succulent mix works perfectly, as it helps prevent root rot and provides the necessary drainage. You can enhance regular potting soil drainage by mixing in perlite or sand.
Light
These plants thrive in bright, indirect light. While direct sunlight can boost flowering, excessive intense sunlight may damage their leaves. For the best light exposure indoors, position them near a south or east-facing window. The ideal temperature range is between 15-30°C.
Watering
Kalanchoe thrives best with the "soak and dry" method. Water it well when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, and then let the excess water drain out. Avoid overwatering, as kalanchoe can easily develop root rot.
Care
Kalanchoe is easy to care for and requires minimal attention. Remove spent blooms to encourage new flower growth. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) for vibrant blooms. Trim leggy stems as needed to maintain a compact shape.
Good for pollinators: No
Toxic to pets: No
Fragrant: No
Care difficulty: Easy
Did you know?
Kalanchoe plants have a unique survival trait called CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) photosynthesis, which allows them to conserve water by only opening their stomata at night. This adaptation makes them particularly efficient in arid conditions and ideal for those looking for low-maintenance greenery.