Kalanchoe laciniata (Christmas Tree Plant)

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 perennial succulent, up to 3.3 feet (1 m), with fleshy ovate to elliptical mid-green leaves, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long. Inflorescence is terminal and peduncled. Flowers are greenish-white to light orange, tubular, up to 0.6 inch (1.5 cm) long.

Photo via tropical.theferns.info

How to Grow and Care

Kalanchoes are not particularly hard to grow, and the flowering varieties are highly rewarding for their colorful and long-lasting flowers. Many people discard the plants after the bloom is over, but this isn’t really necessary. Simply cut off the flowering head, let the plant rest with reduced water, and resume its normal care. It should flower naturally in spring. Professional growers force Kalanchoes to bloom throughout the year (they are a short-day plant).

The two pendant Kalanchoes make excellent hanging plants. 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. Do not let fall below 55ºF (12.7ºC). Feed bi-weekly in the summer with a liquid fertilizer, or use slow-release pellets… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.