This genus contains about 125 species of succulent shrubs, herbs, and climbers distributed mainly throughout tropical regions of Africa and Madagascar as well as parts of Asia. They are usually grown for their interesting foliage forms although a few bear vibrantly colored tubular flowers, including flaming Katie (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana), which make them popular house plants. Growth habits range from low sprawling subshrubs to tall treelike plants, with a similarly wide variation in leaves, from small to large, glossy to felted, and gray-frosted to dark green. The genus has been extensively hybridized and, though the original species bore bright red flowers, the choice now includes white-, yellow-, pink-, and purple-flowering forms.
CULTIVATION
In all but the warmest climates these plants require indoor or greenhouse cultivation and should be grown in a moderately fertile gritty potting mix. If grown outdoors, they need a sunny sheltered position in humus-rich well-drained soil and should be kept reasonably dry in winter. Propagation is commonly by stem or leaf cuttings, or from seed sown in spring.
Top Tip
These plants are ideal for indoor and balcony use. Prune after flowering has finished to ensure good future blooms; reporting can be done at this time as well.
CULTIVATION
In all but the warmest climates these plants require indoor or greenhouse cultivation and should be grown in a moderately fertile gritty potting mix. If grown outdoors, they need a sunny sheltered position in humus-rich well-drained soil and should be kept reasonably dry in winter. Propagation is commonly by stem or leaf cuttings, or from seed sown in spring.
Top Tip
These plants are ideal for indoor and balcony use. Prune after flowering has finished to ensure good future blooms; reporting can be done at this time as well.
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