Kalanchoe succulents come in many different types, each with the unique characteristics that make them stand out.
In this article, I’ll share some of the most popular Kalanchoe succulent types, what makes them unique, and how to care for them.
Kalanchoe Succulent – A Special Genus of Succulent
1. Flaming Katy Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
The Flaming Katy Kalanchoe, also known as the Christmas Kalanchoe, is one of the most popular types of this succulent genus. It’s known for its bright, showy blooms that come in various colors, including red, orange, pink, yellow, and white.
This type of succulent prefers bright, indirect sunlight and likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged.
It’s perfect for adding a pop of color to your home or garden during winter.
2. Panda Plant Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe tomentosa)
This plant is known for its fuzzy, silvery leaves with brown spots, which make it look like a little panda.
3. Lavender Scallops Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi)
The Lavender Scallops Kalanchoe, also known as Lavender Scallops or Kalanchoe lavender scallops, is a beautiful succulent that’s native to Madagascar.
When it blooms, the Lavender Scallops Kalanchoe produces tubular, pink flowers.
4. Devil’s Backbone Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe daigremontiana)
The Devil’s Backbone Kalanchoe, the Mother of Thousands plant, is a unique succulent that produces tiny plantlets along the edges of its leaves.
It has a slightly eerie appearance that gives it its name.
Devil’s Backbone Kalanchoe is a fast-growing succulent that’s easy to propagate.
5. Chandelier Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe delagoensis)
The Chandelier Kalanchoe, also known as the Cathedral Bells plant, is a stunning succulent with long, pendant-like leaves.
6. Chocolate Soldier Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’)
The Chocolate Soldier Kalanchoe is a variety of the Panda Plant Kalanchoe that’s known for its deep brown leaves with silvery spots. It’s a low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for beginners.
How to Care for Kalanchoe Succulents
Regardless of the type of Kalanchoe succulent you have, they all have similar care requirements.
These plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so letting the soil dry out between waterings is important. I share some basic requirements below, you can find out more.
1. Ensure Proper Drainage
To ensure proper drainage for Kalanchoe plants, use well-draining soil, choose a container with drainage holes, water them infrequently, add drainage materials such as rocks or gravel, and check for excess water in the saucer beneath the pot.
2. Water Sparingly
Kalanchoe plants can store water in their leaves, so they do not need to be watered frequently. Normally I water them once a week or when I notice the leaves go wilted (check the below photo).
Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering, and aim to water the plant only once every 1-2 weeks. When watering, water the soil around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves.
3. Provide the Right Amount of Sunlight
To provide the right amount of sunlight for Kalanchoe plants, place them near a window with bright, indirect sunlight, avoid direct sunlight, provide some shade, and monitor light levels to prevent damage to the leaves.
4. Watch Out for Pests
To prevent pests from damaging Kalanchoe plants, watch out for common pests, remove infected, use a mild solution to wash away pests, avoid over-fertilizing, and keep the plant.
5. Note
If you’re growing your Kalanchoe succulent indoors, make sure to rotate it every couple of weeks to ensure even growth.
Outdoor plants should be protected from frost and cold temperatures during the winter months.
My Final Word
This plant is one of the easiest plants to grow. Go and pick your lovely plant now.
I know that sometimes, you won’t have time to water your succulents but this genus makes things easier. Once a week is not a hard requirement for anyone.
You can even purchase some automatic water devices that can connect to wifi and start watering them via some apps.
Leave a comment if you want to know how I setup an automation watering system. Oh sorry, how my husband setup, not me.
