How to identify kalanchoe (Kalanchoe)

How to identify kalanchoe (Kalanchoe)

The observed plant has plump, flattened leaves with distinctive toothed edges, which are fleshy to the touch. The greenery succumbs to a display of sticky flowers, organized in clusters resembling cymes or umbrella-like spreadings. Each flower presents four salver-shaped petals. These blooms, rich in color, emanate from robust stems that branch splendidly. The stems and succulent leaves are indicative of the plant's ability to retain water. The foliage spans an average of 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) in length, supporting the plant's various growth habits as a shrub, herb, or climber.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify kalanchoe

Toothed succulent leaves, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, often purple-grey, showcasing vivipary in some species.

Robust stems, fleshy and woody, up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, with sparse branching and water storage capacity.

Detailed Traits of kalanchoe

Leaf Features

The leaves of kalanchoe are opposite, simple, and succulent, ranging from green to purple-grey, sometimes with a waxy or fuzzy texture depending on the species. Leaf margins can be toothed, scalloped, or entire. In bright sunlight, the color may shift. Typically measuring between 2-6 inches (5-15 cm), the leaves often feature vivipary, forming plantlets at the edges. Variegated cultivars exhibit unique patterns.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of kalanchoe are unscented and have a tubular, salverform shape. They feature a 4-lobed, fleshy corolla and a similarly structured calyx, though smaller in size. Each flower contains 8 stamens arranged in two whorls of 4. The blossoms range in color from red to yellow, pink to white, and may also appear in double-flowered cultivars. Note that some flowers hang in a bell-like fashion. The inflorescences form panicles of cymes or umbels, enhancing their visual appeal.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of kalanchoe is fleshy, with a woody base that becomes more pronounced as it matures. It typically exhibits a light green to brown coloration and can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height. The stem is thick and succulent, storing water for the plant. Branching is often sparse, with nodes spaced apart along the stem. Its surface is smooth but may be slightly ridged, and the stem is resilient, capable of supporting the plant's weight.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

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