How to identify Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe humilis)

How to identify Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe humilis)

Kalanchoe, also known as Baby penwiper

Kalanchoe is distinguished by its low-growing, succulent shrub form, reaching 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) in height. It features an open rosette of gray-green leaves, each around 4 inches (10 cm) long, with prominent maroon spots decorating their surface. During the mid-summer, dull purple to green flowers emerge on an upwardly branched inflorescence, rising about 10 inches (25 cm) above the foliage. Although the flowers are subtle, they give rise to seeds if not removed. The leaves and marked pattern provide key identification characteristics.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Succulent

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Kalanchoe

Low-growing succulent shrub reaching 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) in height.

Gray-green leaves with maroon spots, each around 4 inches (10 cm) long.

Dull purple to green flowers on 10 inches (25 cm) inflorescence.

Distinct rosette arrangement of leaves.

Marked leaf pattern for easy identification.

Kalanchoe and Their Similar Plants

Chandelier plant vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Chandelier plant (Kalanchoe delagoensis) is a succulent plant that originated in Madagascar. A synonym for Kalanchoe delagoensis is Bryophyllum delagoense. An alternative name for chandelier plant is mother of millions. This plant's tolerance of drought conditions have made it a popular garden plant.

Marnier's kalanchoe vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

The leaves of marnier's kalanchoe are round and flat like rackets, and usually bluish-green. The leaf margins beautifully turn yellow, pink, or even red when the plant changes color. Its flowers are pink, fasciate at the top of the scape, and bloom facing downward like wind chimes hanging upside down.

Chocolate soldier vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Felt bush vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Felt bush (Kalanchoe beharensis) is a succulent perennial that will grow from 61 to 91 cm tall. It has large fleshy leaves covered in fine velvety hairs. As the plant matures it will produce clusters of small, urn-shaped flowers that range from reddish orange to greenish yellow. Thrives in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant but needs protection from the cold. Perfect for succulent or Mediterranean gardens, borders and flower beds.

Copper spoons vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Copper spoons leaves have a thick leathery feel. The young leaves are beautifully bronze-colored, while the old leaves are sage green. The back of the leaves are silvery, and the leaf surface is tomentose. The plant prefers warm, dry, sunny environments, is easy to care for, and is a good choice for gardening beginners.

Flour-dust plant vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Kalanchoe pumila is a species of flowering plant in the Crassulaceae family. It is native to Madagascar. It is a spreading, dwarf succulent subshrub growing to 20 cm tall and 45 cm wide, with arching stems of frosted leaves, and clusters of purple-veined pink flowers in spring. As the minimum temperature for cultivation is 12 ℃, in temperate regions it is grown under glass as a houseplant. The Latin specific epithet pumila means dwarf or low-growing. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Paddle Plant vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Paddle Plant is named for its rounded, paddle-like leaves. These evergreen red and green leaves also offer plenty of ornamental appeal. This plant is ideal for dry climates or coastal gardens because of its drought and salt tolerance. However, pet lovers should note that this plant is toxic to dogs and cats.

Beauverd's widow's-thrill vs. Kalanchoe: What's The Difference?

Beauverd's widow's-thrill (*Kalanchoe beauverdii*) is a climbing succulent that can be cultivated in homes and gardens. Beauverd's widow's-thrill can be sensitive to too much light. This species should be watered moderately and allowed to dry out during winter. It is native to Madagascar.

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Key Facts About Kalanchoe

Attributes of Kalanchoe

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Succulent

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Purple

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Purple

Green

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Kalanchoe

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

Family

Stonecrop

Genus

kalanchoe

Species

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe humilis)

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Distribution Map of Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is native to the inland and coastal areas of Southeastern Africa, primarily in regions with tropical climates. Since its introduction to cultivation, kalanchoe has been grown in various parts of the world with suitable climates, extending its presence beyond its original range. It thrives in arid and semi-arid habitats where it can adapt to the minimal water availability.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Kalanchoe

A Comprehensive Guide to Kalanchoe How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe