The Double Flowered Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ‘Double Flowered’) is a popular houseplant known for its abundant, vibrant blooms. Also called Christmas Kalanchoe or Florist Kalanchoe, this succulent adds color to indoor spaces, especially in cooler months. It is favored for its long-lasting flowers and easy care.
Characteristics of Double Flowered Flaming Katy
The Double Flowered Flaming Katy is distinguished by its multi-petaled, rose-like blooms, which differ from single-flowered Kalanchoes. These dense flowers create a fuller appearance. The plant is compact, typically growing 6 to 18 inches (15 to 45 cm) tall and 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) wide.
Its glossy, dark green, fleshy leaves are oval with scalloped edges, growing in opposite pairs. As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves, tolerating drought. Varieties come in a wide spectrum of colors, including red, magenta, pink, orange, yellow, and white.
Comprehensive Care for Double Flowered Flaming Katy
Bright, indirect light is ideal for Double Flowered Flaming Katy. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth and fewer blooms. An east or west-facing window is suitable.
Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) of soil feels dry, then allow the soil to dry almost completely before the next watering. Use a pot with drainage holes and avoid standing water in the saucer to prevent root rot.
A well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, is best. A mixture of potting soil with coarse sand or perlite also works. Optimal temperatures for this plant range from 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Excessive humidity can encourage fungal issues.
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilization can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and Ongoing Maintenance
Pruning helps maintain the Double Flowered Flaming Katy’s shape and encourages continuous blooming. Deadhead spent flowers by snipping them at their base or where they meet the main stem. This redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new flowers rather than seed production.
After the main flowering period, light trimming maintains a compact, bushy form and encourages a second flush of blossoms. If stems become leggy, prune them back by about one-third of their length, cutting just above a leaf node to promote new, bushier growth.
Addressing Common Problems
Issues with Double Flowered Flaming Katy often relate to environmental conditions. A common concern is a lack of blooms, which can stem from insufficient light, incorrect temperatures, or the absence of a dormancy period. To encourage reblooming, provide a period of 12-14 hours of complete darkness daily for about 6 weeks, along with slightly cooler temperatures.
Yellowing leaves frequently indicate overwatering, a prevalent issue for succulents. If leaves turn yellow, allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings and ensure the pot has proper drainage. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems with sparse leaves, is typically a sign of insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with a grow light can correct this.
Pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can occasionally affect Double Flowered Flaming Katy. Inspect the plant regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil for organic control. Root rot, often a consequence of overwatering or poor drainage, manifests as wilting, yellowing leaves, and a mushy base. Prevention involves using well-draining soil and allowing the substrate to dry between waterings.