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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) is ideal indoors. In winter, a south-facing window is best; in summer, an east or west window prevents leaf scorch. Direct midday sun burns the leaves.Light
Water only when the top inch of soil is dry -- this is a succulent and overwatering is by far the most common mistake. water thoroughly (water until it drains out the bottom. Empty the saucer after 30 minutes so the roots are not sitting in water), then let it drain completely. Do not leave water sitting in the saucer. In winter, water every 3-4 weeks. Overwatering causes root rot and leaf drop.Water
Prefers low humidity, consistent with its succulent nature. high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) increases the risk of rot. Average indoor humidity is perfectly adequate.Humidity
Best at 65-75°F (18-24°C). Keep away from cold drafts and frost. Does not tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Keep away from heating vents that dry the air excessively.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana plant

Christmas Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

Easy

Christmas Kalanchoe is one of the most popular flowering succulents on the planet, sold by the millions as holiday gifts for its cheerful clusters of small blooms in red, orange, yellow, pink, white, and salmon that last 8-12 weeks above waxy, scalloped foliage. You can get it to rebloom the following year by giving it a period of long dark nights in autumn -- treat it like a Christmas cactus and it will reward you with a second show.

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana plant
I. Sáček, senior, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana plant
I. Sáček, senior, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Care Guide

How to grow Christmas Kalanchoe

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Water only when the top

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

65-75°F

Soil

30-50%

Propagation

Stem cuttings are the easiest method.

Common Problems

Root rot from overwatering is

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a short-day plant, meaning it needs long nights (12-14 hours of uninterrupted darkness) to trigger flower bud formation. Commercial growers use blackout curtains in greenhouses to force them into bloom for specific holidays -- which is exactly why they appear in shops like clockwork every November.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets according to ASPCA. Contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases abnormal heart rhythm. All parts are affected. Keep out of reach of pets and children. Contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if ingested.

Sources

  1. Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Kalanchoe -- ASPCA (opens in new tab)ASPCA
  2. Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Kalanchoe -- ASPCA (opens in new tab)ASPCA
  3. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Care -- Botanical Gardening (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
  4. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Care -- Botanical Gardening (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Care -- The Gardening Cook (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Care -- The Gardening Cook (opens in new tab)Reference
  7. Kalanchoe Plant Care Guide -- Healthy Houseplants (opens in new tab)Reference
  8. Kalanchoe Plant Care Guide -- Healthy Houseplants (opens in new tab)Reference
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