Florist Kalanchoe: A Colorful, Low-Maintenance Houseplant You’ll Love

The florist kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is one of the most popular flowering houseplants worldwide known for its vivid blooms, glossy leaves, and impressively long flowering season. Whether you’re a beginner plant parent or an experienced gardener, this compact succulent has a special way of brightening up any space with minimal effort.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about florist kalanchoe from its origins and characteristics to care, propagation, and common problems.

What Is Florist Kalanchoe?

Florist kalanchoe is a flowering succulent native to Madagascar. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes other well-known succulents like jade plants and echeverias. This plant stands out because it combines the durability of succulents with the beauty of long-lasting clusters of blooms.

Appearance and Characteristics

1. Compact Growth

Florist kalanchoe typically grows 6–18 inches tall, making it perfect for tabletops, windowsills, and decorative arrangements.

2. Thick, Glossy Leaves

Its fleshy, dark-green leaves store water, giving the plant excellent drought resistance.

3. Vibrant Flowers

The blooms come in a variety of colors, including:

• Red
• Pink
• Orange
• Yellow
• White
• Purple

You can also find double-flowered varieties that resemble miniature roses.

4. Long Blooming Season

A single plant can stay in bloom for up to eight to twelve weeks—far longer than many other indoor flowering plants.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light Requirements

Florist kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. A sunny windowsill is ideal. When grown indoors, insufficient light may lead to fewer blooms and leggy stems.

Temperature Preferences

These plants prefer:

• Daytime: 18–24°C (65–75°F)
• Nighttime: 12–16°C (55–60°F)

They are not frost-tolerant and must be kept indoors in cold climates.

Soil Type

Use a well-draining soil mix, such as:

• Cactus/succulent potting mix
• Regular potting soil with added perlite or sand

Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

How to Care for Florist Kalanchoe

1. Watering

As a succulent, it needs less water than most other flowering houseplants.

Water only when:

• The top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.

Avoid overwatering, as this is the main cause of plant decline. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.

2. Fertilizing

Feed your plant:

• Once a month during the growing season
• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer

Avoid overfertilizing, which can burn the roots.

3. Pruning

Light pruning helps keep the plant compact.

• Remove dead or faded flowers to encourage new blooms.
• Trim leggy stems to maintain shape.

4. Repotting

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots become overcrowded. Choose a pot only one size larger to avoid excessive soil moisture.

Encouraging Reblooming

While florist kalanchoe is often sold as a disposable flowering plant, it can definitely rebloom with the right care.

Short-Day Treatment

Kalanchoe requires short days and long nights to trigger flowering—similar to poinsettias.

To encourage blooms:

1. Provide 14 hours of darkness per day for 4–6 weeks.
2. Keep it in bright light during the remaining hours.
3. Reduce watering slightly during this period.

Once buds form, resume normal care.

Propagation Methods

Florist kalanchoe is easy to multiply, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.

1. Leaf Cuttings

1. Remove a healthy leaf.
2. Let it callous for 1–2 days.
3. Place on well-draining soil.
4. Mist lightly until roots form.

2. Stem Cuttings

1. Cut a healthy stem 4–6 inches long.
2. Allow it to dry and callous.
3. Plant in soil and keep lightly moist.

3. Offshoots

Some plants produce small pups at the base—these can be gently separated and repotted.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Overwatering

Symptoms: Yellow leaves, mushy roots
Solution: Allow soil to dry; repot if necessary.

2. Insufficient Light

Symptoms: Stretched stems, fewer blooms
Solution: Move to a brighter location.

3. Pests

Common pests include:

• Mealybugs
• Aphids
• Spider mites

Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.

4. Drooping Leaves

Often caused by underwatering or temperature stress.

Conclusion

The florist kalanchoe is a vibrant, low-maintenance plant that brings color and life to any space. Whether you admire its glossy leaves, long-lasting blooms, or easy-care nature, it’s a plant that fits beautifully into any home. With proper care—bright light, occasional watering, and some patience—you can enjoy its cheerful blossoms year after year.

FAQs

1. Is florist kalanchoe toxic to pets?

Yes. Kalanchoe can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

2. How often should I water my florist kalanchoe?

Water only when the soil’s top layer is dry—usually every 1–2 weeks.

3. Can kalanchoe grow outdoors?

Yes, but only in warm climates (USDA zones 9–12). In colder regions, keep it indoors.

4. Why isn’t my kalanchoe blooming again?

It needs short-day conditions—long nights—for 4–6 weeks to trigger flowering.

5. How long do florist kalanchoe flowers last?

Blooms typically last 8–12 weeks, depending on care and light conditions.