Introduction
The kalanchoe plant is a popular succulent in the stonecrop family (Crassulaceae), comprising about 125 species. Known for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers and easy-care needs, it is native to Madagascar and tropical Africa.
Kalanchoe thrives in well-draining soil with moderate or indirect sunlight and consistent but infrequent watering. Typically grown indoors, but it can be placed outdoors in summer in warmer climates. Hardy in USDA zones 8-11, it must be brought inside before frost in colder areas.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Kalanchoe plants offer numerous health benefits, including reducing wrinkles, relieving sunburns, treating warts, healing wounds, relaxing muscles, alleviating headaches, improving gastrointestinal health, providing antibacterial properties, and treating fungal infections, making them a valuable addition to both your home and health regimen.
Table of Contents
Kalanchoe Plant Background
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Kalanchoe spp. |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Flower Color | Red, orange, yellow, pink, white, purple |
| Native Region | Madagascar and tropical Africa |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 8-11 |
| Growth Habit | Erect, bushy, sometimes trailing |
| Leaves | Thick, fleshy, usually green but can be variegated |
| Flowering Season | Typically late winter to early spring |
| Height | Varies by species; from a few inches to several feet |
| Propagation Methods | Stem cuttings, leaf propagation, offsets |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets if ingested |
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Origin and Species | Kalanchoe is a succulent from Madagascar and tropical Africa, with about 125 species. |
| Health Benefits | Offers numerous health benefits, including antibacterial properties and treating fungal infections. |
| Growth Rate | Slow-growing, taking 2-5 years to mature. Growth varies with light, watering, and fertilization. |
| Indoor Care | Thrives indoors with bright, indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and temperatures between 60-85°F. |
| Watering Method | Bottom-watering is recommended to prevent root rot and promote healthy root growth. |
| Propagation Methods | Propagate through stem cuttings, leaf propagation, or offsets, with roots developing in 7-20 days. |
| Toxicity | Not edible and toxic if ingested by humans or pets; keep out of reach of children and animals. |
| Common Issues | Etiolation, rot from overwatering, and pests like mealybugs and spider mites are common problems. |
| Reblooming | Requires 12-14 hours of darkness for 6 weeks in fall for reblooming. |
Growing Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe plants are generally slow-growing, taking between two and five years to reach mature size. The growth rate can vary depending on factors such as light exposure, watering, and fertilization. Here are some specific details about the growth rate of kalanchoe plants:
- Average Growth Rate: Kalanchoes grow at an average rate of about 1-2 inches per year.
- Maturity: The most common kalanchoe, ‘Flaming Katy’, reaches around 12 inches tall at maturity. Paddle plants can grow to more than two feet tall at maturity, while cathedral bells and velvet-leaf kalanchoe can grow up to 5 or 6 feet tall inside.
- Outdoor vs. Indoor Growth: Kalanchoes grown outdoors tend to grow more quickly due to brighter conditions. Indoor plants may grow slower due to limited light.
Overall, kalanchoe plants are known for their slow growth rate, which makes them well-suited for indoor cultivation where they can thrive with proper care.
Kalanchoe Care
Indoors Care
Kalanchoe plants thrive indoors with proper care. Place them in bright, indirect sunlight and use well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix. Water the plant only when the soil is dry, avoiding waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot.
Maintain temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C) and low humidity. Fertilize monthly during the growing season and prune any leggy growth to promote a fuller shape.
Light Requirements
- Kalanchoes need plenty of sunlight, at least 8 hours per day
- Place them in a bright, sunny spot near an east, west or south-facing window
- Avoid direct midday sun which can scorch the leaves
Watering
- Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings
- Water thoroughly when the top few inches of soil are dry
- Avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot
Soil and Potting
- Use a well-draining potting mix or make your own with 60% peat and 40% perlite
- Plant in a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil
- Repot every 2-3 years in spring when the plant outgrows its container
Temperature and Humidity
- Kalanchoes prefer temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C)
- They are not cold-hardy and should be brought indoors before frost
- Average household humidity is sufficient, no need for extra humidity
Fertilizing
- Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
- Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows
Pruning and Deadheading
- Pinch off leggy stems in early spring to encourage bushier growth
- Remove spent flower clusters to prolong blooming
Reblooming
- To rebloom, provide 12-14 hours of complete darkness for 6 weeks in fall
- Ideal temperatures are 40-45°F (4-7°C) at night and 60°F (16°C) during the day
Types of Kalanchoe Plant
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Kalanchoe blossfeldiana | Common flowering variety, clusters of brightly colored blooms (red, orange, yellow, pink, white) |
| Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi | Variegated with blue-green and white leaves, pink edges, coral-colored bell-shaped flowers |
| Kalanchoe uniflora | Epiphytic species with trailing stems, plump leaves, coral-colored bell-shaped flowers |
| Kalanchoe orgyalis | Oval, slightly concave leaves, up to 6 feet tall outdoors, yellow flowers in spring |
| Kalanchoe tomentose | Fuzzy silver-gray leaves with brown edges, varieties include ‘Chocolate Soldier’, ‘Rubra’ |
These are just a few examples of the diverse and fascinating kalanchoe species, offering gardeners a wide array of options for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
With their vibrant flowers, interesting foliage textures, and low-maintenance nature, kalanchoes are popular ornamental plants that add color and interest to various landscapes.
Watering Method of Kalanchoe Plant
The recommended watering method for kalanchoe plants is bottom-watering. This involves placing the plant in a sink, dish, or basin filled with about an inch of water and letting it sit for 5-15 minutes to allow the plant to absorb the water through its roots. This method helps prevent water from pooling at the bottom of the pot and reduces the risk of root rot.
Why Bottom-Watering?
- Prevents Root Rot: Bottom-watering helps prevent root rot by ensuring that the roots are not sitting in water for extended periods. This is particularly important for kalanchoe plants, which are prone to root rot due to their succulent nature.
- Promotes Healthy Root Growth: Bottom-watering promotes healthy root growth by providing the plant with a consistent supply of water. This helps the plant develop a strong root system, which is essential for its overall health and well-being.
Additional Tips
- Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the top inch of the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels moist, wait a few more days before checking again.
- Avoid Overwatering: Kalanchoe plants are drought-tolerant and can survive with infrequent watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
- Use Well-Draining Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that allows excess water to escape quickly. This helps prevent water from pooling at the bottom of the pot and reduces the risk of root rot.
Pruning
Pruning kalanchoe plants helps maintain their shape and encourages new growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems, and pinch back leggy stems to promote bushy growth.
Propagating
| Method | Steps | Time for Roots to Develop |
|---|---|---|
| Stem Cuttings | Cut a healthy stem just above a leaf node, remove lower leaves, plant in well-draining soil | 15-20 days |
| Leaf Propagation | Remove leaves without damaging the petioles, plant directly in soil | 15-20 days |
| Offsets | Separate offsets from the parent plant, plant in well-draining soil | 7 days |
Potting
Kalanchoe prefers well-draining soil and a pot that regulates moisture. Use a succulent and cactus soil mix and a clay pot to achieve optimal conditions.
Winter Care
Kalanchoe is a cold-hardy succulent that can thrive in indoor conditions during the winter. Reduce watering and provide moderate sunlight to promote healthy growth.
Blooming
Kalanchoe plants typically bloom from late winter to early spring, with the flowering period lasting about 8 weeks. Under ideal conditions, some varieties can bloom again later in the year. Proper care, including a rest period with 14 hours of darkness daily for six weeks, can extend the blooming period up to several months.
Common Issues
Common issues with Kalanchoe include:
- Etiolation: Leggy stems can occur if the plant is not receiving sufficient light. Pinch back stems to promote bushy growth.
- Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot. Ensure the soil drains well and reduce watering during the winter.
- Pests: Check for pests like mealybugs and spider mites, which can infest kalanchoe plants.
Additional Tips
- Rooting Hormone: Use a rooting hormone powder to promote faster root development.
- Misting: Mist the soil regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Temperature: Kalanchoe prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C).
I found this YouTube video from Mountain Crest Gardens and I think it is worth checking out
Conclusion
Kalanchoe plants are an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners due to their vibrant flowers, low-maintenance nature, and versatile growth environments. Whether grown indoors or outdoors, these succulents thrive with minimal care, providing a beautiful and beneficial addition to any space.
However, it is crucial to remember that kalanchoe plants are not edible and can be toxic if ingested by humans or pets. They contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal issues and other health problems, so it is important to keep them out of reach of children and animals.
By understanding and meeting their specific needs, your kalanchoe plants will remain healthy and vibrant year-round. also ensure that they are safely placed away from curious hands and paws.