Overview
Kalanchoe is a bushy cactus succulent in the genus Kalanchoe, part of the Crassulaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Kalanchoe grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and low maintenance.
About
Kalanchoe, , is a genus of about 125 species of tropical, succulent plants in the stonecrop family Crassulaceae, mainly native to Madagascar and tropical Africa. A Kalanchoe species was one of the first plants to be sent into space, sent on a resupply to the Soviet Salyut 6 space station in 1979.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Kalanchoe
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Kalanchoe size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Kalanchoe
- Propagation
- Seed, offsets
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews, rust
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Kalanchoe need?
Kalanchoe grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Kalanchoe hardy in the UK?
Kalanchoe has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Kalanchoe?
Seed, offsets.
More in the Kalanchoe genus
- Kalanchoe albiflora
- Kalanchoe beharensisfeltbush
- Kalanchoe beharensis 'Silver Shadow'
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana 'Acheron'PBR
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana 'Amrum'
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana 'Elizabeth'
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana 'Galera'PBR
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana 'Rb 6428 4'PBR