Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' - World of Succulents

Scientific Name

Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies'

Common Name(s)

Pink Mother of Thousands

Synonym(s)

Bryophyllum 'Pink Butterflies'

Scientific Classification

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

Origin

This succulent is a variegated form of an old hybrid that was hard to track down its heritage. The original hybrid Kalanchoe × houghtonii was a cross between Kalanchoe daigremontiana and Kalanchoe delagoensis. At some point, a variegated sport of this hybrid appeared, and Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' came to be.

Description

Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' is an incredibly colorful succulent that produces copious quantities of tiny pink butterfly-like plantlets on its leaves but has lost its ability to root from plantlets. Sometimes a couple might take it, but in general, no. The plantlets are pink because they lack chlorophyll. Thus like any variegated plant that lacks chlorophyll, they die.

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 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 quickly.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.