Kalanchoe humilis

Scientific Name

Kalanchoe humilis Britten

Synonym(s)

Kalanchoe prasina

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe

Description

Kalanchoe humilis is an attractive succulent shrub with pale green leaves, usually strongly marked with purple or maroon spots. It grows up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall. Stems are simple or with few branches, woody at the base, purple or slightly glaucous, and up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. Leaves are egg-shaped, up to 5.2 inches (13 cm) long and up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) wide. They have a slight glaucous bloom on both sides and margins with rounded teeth. Flowers are small, purple to green, and appear on erect, branched, and up to 12 inches (40 cm) tall inflorescence in mid-summer.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Kalanchoe care is minimal but be cautious about light levels. Intense sunlight can burn the tips of the leaves. Place pots in partial sun to light shade areas when growing Kalanchoes.

The flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful and long-lasting flowers. They prefer bright, sunny locations, especially in the growing season. Water moderately from fall to winter when the growth is most active. Reduce watering during the hottest summer months when the plants are mostly dormant and winter when the growth slows down significantly. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. An ordinary potting soil mix is fine. Feed bi-weekly during the growing season with a liquid fertilizer, or use slow-release pellets.

These small plants require repotting every few years. When repotting, take additional care in handling as the leaves are somewhat brittle and can snap easily. Clay pots work exceptionally well for planting Kalanchoes. Ensure pots can drain well and saucers can empty easily.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.

Origin

This species is native to Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique.

Photo Gallery

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