Scientific Name
Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC.
Common Names
Christmas Tree Plant, Cathedral Bells, Lace Leaf Kalanchoe
Synonyms
Cotyledon laciniata, Kalanchoe acutifolia, Kalanchoe aegyptiaca, Kalanchoe alternans, Kalanchoe floribunda, Kalanchoe rosea, Kalanchoe schweinfurthii, Kalanchoe welitschii, Vereia laciniata
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Description
Kalanchoe laciniata is a succulent with reddish, erect, usually simple stems and fleshy, green leaves very variable in shape. It grows that grows up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall. Leaves are usually compound or dissected, rarely undivided or 3-lobed, up to 5.6 inches (14 cm) long, and up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) wide. Flowers are greenish-white to light orange, tubular, and up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long. They appear in summer in flat-topped clusters on up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall stem.
Photo via tropical.theferns.info
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Kalanchoe care is minimal but be cautious about light levels. Intense southern light 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 summer growing season. During the winter, consider a south-facing window. Water moderately throughout the summer and reduce watering in the winter. Let the soil surface dry out between waterings, and in the winter, the plant can almost dry out. Watch the fleshy leaves for signs of water distress. They prefer warmth. Don't let it fall below 55 ºF (13 ºC). An ordinary potting soil mix is fine. Feed bi-weekly in the summer 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. See more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.
Origin
Native to India, Africa, Yemen, and Brazil.
Links
- Back to genus Kalanchoe
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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