Scientific Name
Kalanchoe rotundifolia (Haw.) Haw.
Common Name(s)
Common Kalanchoe
Synonym(s)
Crassula rotundifolia, Kalanchoe luebbertiana, Verea rotundifolia, Vereia rotundifolia
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Kalanchoeae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Description
Kalanchoe rotundifolia is a succulent plant with fleshy, rounded or lobed leaves clustered at the base of erect, slender stems. It grows up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall. Although the species name "rotundifolia" means "with round leaves," it may have leaves that vary from entire to deeply lobed also from one season to the next and now includes many forms (previously considered independent species). Flowers are borne in an inflorescence with a long erect stalk. The flat-topped inflorescence consists of yellow or orange flowers and often becomes red and conspicuously twisted when old. The flowering period occurs through fall and early winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °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 easily.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe.
Origin
This species is native to South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Links
- Back to genus Kalanchoe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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