Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, Kalanchoe pinnata, Kalanchoe tomentosa, Kalanchoe beharensis, Kalanchoe luciae, Kalanchoe marneriana, Kalanchoe marmorata, Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora
The genus Kalanchoe is a group of succulent plants belonging to the family Crassulaceae. There are approximately 125 species of Kalanchoe, originating primarily from Madagascar and tropical regions of Africa. These plants are characterized by their fleshy, thick leaves that store water, allowing them to survive in arid and semi-arid environments.
Growth habit: Kalanchoe plants are succulents with a range of growth habits, including compact, bushy, trailing, and upright forms. Many species have fleshy, thick leaves that store water, allowing them to thrive in arid environments.
Size: The size of the plants varies depending on the species, but most plants range from 6 inches (15 cm) to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, with some species growing up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) in height.
Flowers: Kalanchoe plants produce vibrant flowers in a variety of colors, such as red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. The blooms can appear in clusters or as individual flowers, depending on the species.
Hardiness: Most Kalanchoe species are not frost-tolerant and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-12. In colder climates, they can be grown as houseplants or in containers that can be moved indoors during winter.
Drought: Kalanchoe plants are drought-tolerant plants, making them suitable for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes. Their fleshy leaves store water, enabling them to withstand periods of dryness.
Uses: Kalanchoes are popular as ornamental plants in gardens, containers, and indoor settings. They provide long-lasting blooms and interesting foliage textures, adding color and interest to various landscapes.
Toxicity: Many species contain compounds called bufadienolides, which can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Deer and Rabbit: Kalanchoe plants are not particularly favored by deer and rabbits.
There are several reasons why you should consider growing Kalanchoe plants:
Easy to care for: Kalanchoe plants are low-maintenance plants requiring minimal care, making them perfect for busy gardeners or those new to gardening.
Drought-tolerant: Their succulent nature allows them to store water in their leaves, making them drought-tolerant and suitable for xeriscaping or low-water landscapes.
Vibrant flowers: They produce beautiful, long-lasting blooms in various colors, such as red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, which can brighten up your garden, containers, or indoor spaces.
Variety: With over 125 species, there is a variety to choose from, each with unique growth habits, foliage, and flower forms.
Attract pollinators: The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy and diverse garden ecosystem.
Indoor and outdoor use: Kalanchoe plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making them versatile additions to your living space or garden.
Air purifying: Some studies suggest that Kalanchoe plants can help improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia.
By growing these plants, you can enjoy their vibrant blooms, unique foliage, and low-maintenance nature while also benefiting the environment and contributing to a healthier garden ecosystem.
| Hardiness |
9 - 12 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Early, Mid, Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |
These are just a few examples of the diverse and fascinating species within the Kalanchoe genus, offering gardeners a wide array of options for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
When designing a garden with Kalanchoe plants, consider their diverse range of growth habits, foliage, and flower forms to create a visually appealing and well-balanced landscape. Here are some design ideas:
Rock gardens: Kalanchoe can be incorporated into rock gardens, where their succulent nature and unique forms complement other drought-tolerant plants and rocks.
Containers and mixed planters: Grow Kalanchoe in pots, hanging baskets, or mixed planters with other succulents and drought-tolerant plants to create visually appealing displays.
Indoor gardens: Kalanchoe plants make excellent houseplants, adding color and interest to your indoor spaces. Arrange them on windowsills, shelves, or tabletops.
Focal points: Use larger Kalanchoe species, such as Kalanchoe beharensis, as focal points in your garden, drawing attention with their unique foliage.
Borders and edging: Plant smaller species along borders or as edging plants to add color and texture to garden beds.
When selecting companion plants for Kalanchoes, choose those with similar light, water, and soil requirements. Some suitable companion plants include:
Echeveria: These rosette-forming succulents have a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes that can complement Kalanchoes in mixed plantings.
Sedum: Also known as stonecrops, these succulents come in various forms and can provide ground cover or trailing elements in container gardens.
Graptopetalum: These succulents have fleshy leaves and rosette forms, making them a visually appealing addition alongside Kalanchoes.
Crassula: Jade plants and other Crassula species can complement Kalanchoes with their distinct forms and foliage.
Sempervivum: Commonly known as hens and chicks, these low-growing succulents can create an interesting ground cover or edging around Kalanchoe plants.
Agave: The striking forms of agave plants can add architectural interest to a garden and pair well with Kalanchoes in a xeriscape or desert-themed landscape.
Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush): This drought-tolerant, bushy plant can add height and structure to a garden or container planting with Kalanchoes.
Remember to consider the mature size of both Kalanchoe and companion plants to ensure there is enough space for growth and avoid overcrowding.
Kalanchoe plants are generally low-maintenance and easy to grow, but following these growing tips can help ensure their health and vitality:
Light: Kalanchoes thrive in bright light, ideally with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. When grown indoors, place them near a sunny window to receive adequate light.
Soil: Plant Kalanchoes in well-draining soil, such as a mixture of equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. Proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot and other issues related to overwatering.
Water: Water your Kalanchoe plants thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering.
Temperature: Kalanchoes prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) and should be protected from frost and extreme cold. Bring outdoor plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilizer: Feed your Kalanchoes with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak, leggy growth.
Pruning: Prune your Kalanchoes after they finish blooming to encourage a bushier growth habit and remove dead or damaged foliage. Pinching back the tips can also promote branching.
Blooming: To encourage blooming, Kalanchoes need a period of short days (less than 12 hours of daylight) and long nights (more than 12 hours of darkness) for about 6 weeks. You can achieve this by placing them in a dark room or covering them with a box or cloth during the long nights.
Propagation: Kalanchoes can be propagated by leaf or stem cuttings, division, or offsets, depending on the species. Allow cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure proper watering and soil drainage to prevent root rot and fungal diseases.
By following these growing tips, you can enjoy healthy, vibrant Kalanchoe plants in your garden or home.
Is a kalanchoe plant indoor or outdoor?
Kalanchoe plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate and conditions. In regions with mild temperatures (USDA hardiness zones 9-12), they can be grown outdoors year-round. In colder climates, they can be grown outdoors in containers during the warmer months and brought inside before the first frost to overwinter as houseplants.
How long do kalanchoe plants live?
The lifespan of a Kalanchoe plant can vary depending on the species and the care it receives. With proper care, a Kalanchoe plant can live for several years. Some species may be short-lived, while others can live for a decade or more.
How often should I water Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe plants should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on factors like temperature, humidity, and light. Generally, watering once every 1-2 weeks should be sufficient. It’s important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Is the kalanchoe plant poisonous?
Yes, Kalanchoe plants are considered toxic to pets and humans when ingested. They contain compounds called bufadienolides, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms. Keep Kalanchoe plants out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Yui Yuize, Shutterstock
| Hardiness |
9 - 12 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Early, Mid, Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall Winter |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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