Also known as Christmas Kalanchoe · Cultivated Kalanchoe · Erva Da Fortuna
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, or Flaming Katy, is a popular succulent houseplant. It features glossy, dark green leaves and vibrant, long-lasting clusters of flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
70% intensity
Some morning sun
Allow soil to dry between waterings
40% intensity
Reduce in winter
Well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix, or a general potting mix amended with perlite or sand.
50% intensity
Warm, consistent temperatures
60% intensity
Avoid cold drafts
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed sparingly during growing season
30% intensity
Avoid during flowering/winter
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. In rare, large ingestions, cardiac effects may occur.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry to the touch, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on conditions.
Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot, as Kalanchoes are susceptible to overwatering. Reduce frequency during cooler months or after flowering.
Regularly deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off to encourage the plant to produce more blooms and maintain a neat appearance.
After flowering, prune back any leggy or overgrown stems to promote bushier growth and a more compact shape. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve air circulation and overall plant health.
This also helps rejuvenate older plants.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, take a 5-10 cm section, remove lower leaves, and allow it to callus for 2-3 days.
Plant the callused end in well-draining succulent mix. For leaf cuttings, simply place a healthy leaf on the soil surface. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots and new growth appear, typically within a few weeks.
Repot your Kalanchoe every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound, ideally after the main flowering period. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention.
Use fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Gently remove the plant, inspect the roots for any rot, and replant at the same depth, ensuring good drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
Where Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is found
Density
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7 known issues from plant disease data
Powdery mildew on Kalanchoë leaves a pale white coating on leaves and buds, dulling growth and leaving the plant spotted and tired.
Botrytis blight on Kalanchoë causes brown, collapsing flowers and leaves with fuzzy gray mold that quickly spoils buds and tender shoots.
Phytophthora crown and root rot on Kalanchoë darkens the crown and roots at soil level, then causes wilting, collapse, and plant loss.
Pythium root rot on Kalanchoë turns roots brown and weak, leading to yellowing, wilt, poor growth, and sudden decline of the plant.
Anthracnose on Kalanchoë causes dark sunken leaf and stem spots that merge into blighted patches, making foliage dry, curled, and damaged.
Stemphylium leaf spot on Kalanchoë creates small tan to brown spots with yellow halos that age into rough scabby patches on leaves.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Kalanchoe |
| Species | Kalanchoe blossfeldiana |
Similar in genus Kalanchoe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
