Kalanchoe

Scientific Name: Kalanchoe spp.

Common Names: Kalanchoe and many others depending on variety

Native to: Native to Madagascar, Africa, and parts of Asia

Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate direct sunlight for part of the day, especially in cooler climates. 

Height: 6 to 24 inches, depending on the variety

Width: 6 to 18 inches, depending on the variety

Winter Look: Typically grown as an annual or as a houseplant.

Seasonal Interest: Primarily spring to early summer, with peak blooming in late winter or early spring, depending on the variety

Drought Tolerance: High. Kalanchoe is a succulent that is highly drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal watering.

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil and is highly tolerant of dry, poor soils.

pH Range: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10 to 11 (grown as an annual or houseplant in colder zones)

Deer Resistance: Low. While Kalanchoe is not a favorite of deer, they may nibble on it if other food sources are scarce.

Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Toxicity: Toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested.

Potential Issues: Susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and scale. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Kalanchoe is also sensitive to cold temperatures and frost.

Notes: Kalanchoe is a popular succulent known for its colorful clusters of small flowers, which bloom in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and orange. It is commonly grown as a houseplant or in gardens in warmer climates, as it is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal care. Kalanchoe thrives in well-drained soils and is ideal for containers, rock gardens, and xeriscaping. It requires little maintenance, but regular deadheading encourages continuous blooming. Due to its toxicity to pets, it should be kept out of reach of animals.

I have a few varieties of Kalancho and usually keep my mother plant in a pot (to move to the greenhouse in winter), and I plant cuttings and babies in the flower beds.