Flaming katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) Care, Pruning, Cuttings- PictureThis

Florist kalanchoe

Also known as: Christmas kalanchoe

Florist kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) originates from Madagascar and has been a popular houseplant since the 1930s. Unlike most other succulents that are grown for their interesting leaves, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is valued for the colorful flowerheads it produces in autumn and winter. This is the reason it is commonly gifted during holidays, earning it another name - Christmas kalanchoe. It is toxic to pets.

Scientific classification

Species

Florist kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Late fall, Winter

Bloom Time

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 50 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 mm to 1.2 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange, Yellow, Pink, Purple, White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Florist kalanchoe

Distribution of Florist kalanchoe

Distribution Map

Florist kalanchoe is native to Madagascar and has been cultivated worldwide as a houseplant. In its native range, this plant grows wild in high-altitude, cool areas. However, it is listed as invasive in a few other tropical countries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen to purify air.

Garden Use

Florist kalanchoe is a perennial succulent commonly found in gardens in warm climates. It is prized for its long-flowering, bright and cheerful blooms, whilst being easy to maintain. Its spreading nature makes it suitable for ground cover. Florist kalanchoe fits in rockeries and Mediterranean gardens. Plant with for Crown of Thorns and Panda plant for color and textural contrast.

Symbolism

Longevity, health, prosperity, wealth

Interesting Facts

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is commonly known as florist kalanchoe . It usually blossoms in a series of small flowers clustered into one large vivacious flowerhead. So some people see it as symbolic of having a large family. They are usually given to middle-aged and elderly people as a gift, in line with their ardent hopes for their children and families. Putting a pot of it at home, injects the whole family with fresh vitality. They are easily maintained, even for those without a green thumb. It carries such a beautiful meaning that people who receive this flower will be lucky, happy, healthy and live long.

Name Story

Florist kalanchoe: It is often called the florist kalanchoe because it is widely available in stores like grocery stores, supermarkets, flower shops, nurseries, etc.

Christmas kalanchoe: As Christmas approaches, it quietly blooms, and the beauty of its bright red flowers and dark green leaves draw everyone's attention. In the cold winter weather, it brings the warmth of Christmas festivities, so people like to purchase it to decorate their interiors for the Christmas season. Therefore, it is called the Christmas kalanchoe.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Florist kalanchoe, including the following common varieties :

Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana 'Queen Lindsay'Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Kerinci Kalanchoe Bloddfeldiana Queen Jodie Kalanchoe Bloddfeldiana Lanin Kalanchoe Blsosfeldiana Mistral Kalanchoe Fuego Flaming Katy Calandiva White Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Simone Calandiva Red Kalanchoe

Toxicity

Florist kalanchoe is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting any part of the plant, including flowers, leaves, or roots, can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected. Pet owners should monitor and prevent their pets’ access to florist kalanchoe to avoid accidental poisoning.

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Care Guide for Florist kalanchoe

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Florist kalanchoe is a drought-tolerant succulent from Madagascar, thriving in dry conditions. It requires minimal watering, about once every three weeks. This evergreen plant is typically grown indoors, as it is sensitive to cold, with overwatering posing a greater risk than under-watering.

Fertilize: Fertilize florist kalanchoe every 3-4 weeks with succulent-specific food during the growing season, applying at quarter strength to prevent harm. Suspend feeding in winter for rest. Water florist kalanchoe prior to fertilizing to avoid root burn, ensuring optimal growth and vigor throughout its lifecycle.

Pruning: To maintain the shape of florist kalanchoe, pruning of redundant and dense branches is advised in spring and autumn. For propagation, cut stout stems with 5-6 leaves, apply sulfur powder to the wound, and plant after healing. Soil should be lightly dampened during cutting.

Propagation: Florist kalanchoe is a succulent perennial with vibrant flowers and fleshy leaves. Propagate using healthy stem cuttings, allowing the cut end to callus before planting in moist, well-draining soil. Indirect sunlight and warmth promote rooting, which can be expedited with rooting hormone.

Repotting: Repot florist kalanchoe every two years in spring for optimal growth. Use a larger pot with drainage. After repotting, keep florist kalanchoe in bright, indirect light and resume watering only when the soil is dry to promote recovery and budding.

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