Description
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a tender succulent plant which makes a beautiful houseplant. The fleshy green leaves and stems look attractive all year round but the plants look at their best during the winter to spring when it has numerous pink flowers. It can be forced to flower at other times by restricting light to 8 hours a day for about a month. This will convince the plant to produce flower buds. They like a bright, sunny spot though can get sunburn from intense, direct sunlight through glass. For best results they prefer an east or west facing window during summer and a south facing one throughout the winter though they will grow well in most conditions. If they become too ‘leggy’ cut them back and they will bush out.
In bright sunlight the leaves may turn red, this is natural and quite attractive. If the light is too intense, however, brown patches will appear. Move the plant further back from the glass or try a different windowsill. If it wilts or goes mushy it has probably got too cold, ensure it is always kept above 10°c. AS long as the roots have not got too cold it will regrow. Remove all the damaged material and keep in a warmer position.
It can be kept on a patio during the summer but bring in before night time temperatures drop below 10°c (50°F).
It naturally grows in arid conditions so grows best in a well drained potting mix such as cactus compost though will grow in standard compost. If you have some add horticultural grit, vermiculite or perlite to improve drainage. Let it dry out between watering and never allow a Kalanchoe to become waterlogged.
More Details:
Family: Crassulaceae
Syn:
Common Name: Flaming Katy, Florists Kalanchoe, Panda Plant, Madagascar widow’s-thrill
Native: Madagascar
Height x Spread: 45cm x 50cm (18″ x 20″)
Soil Type: Well Drained
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Aspect: Sunny
UK Hardiness: Tender
Flowering Time: Late Autumn – Spring
Flower Colour: Pink
Foliage Colour: Green
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