Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ is a distinctive succulent, offering striking appearance and relatively straightforward care. It’s a favored addition to indoor plant collections, providing natural beauty. Its compact growth and vibrant coloration appeal to both seasoned gardeners and new enthusiasts.
Discovering Kalanchoe Cinnamon
Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ is distinguished by its unique coloration, often a warm, reddish-brown hue on its leaves, reminiscent of the spice. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water efficiently. The plant grows compactly, forming a rosette shape that can become more upright with maturity. Unlike many Kalanchoe varieties with green foliage or prominent flowering, its unique leaf pigmentation provides year-round visual interest.
Kalanchoe Cinnamon Care Guide
Light Needs
Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally six to eight hours daily. It tolerates some direct morning sun, but intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves, causing them to dull or bleach. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and loss of its characteristic cinnamon coloration. An east or west-facing window is often suitable.
Watering
Water Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ using the “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, then drench until water drains from the bottom. Frequency decreases in cooler months and increases during active growth in spring and summer. Overwatering leads to soft, mushy stems and root rot, while underwatering causes the leaves to shrivel and become brittle.
Soil Requirements
Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ requires excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. A well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended. Adding perlite or coarse sand to a standard potting mix enhances drainage. This ensures excess moisture escapes quickly, protecting roots from fungal issues.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ prefers average room temperatures (65-80°F / 18-27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection below 50°F (10°C). Average household humidity is sufficient; it does not require high humidity. Avoid excessively humid environments, which can promote fungal growth.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ benefits from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two to four weeks. Cease fertilization during dormant winter months. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup, potentially harming the root system.
Pruning
Pruning Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ maintains its compact shape and encourages bushier growth. Remove leggy or elongated stems by cutting them back to a leaf node. Trim spent flower stalks back to the base after flowering. This redirects the plant’s energy towards new growth, enhancing vigor and appearance.
Propagating and Repotting
Propagate Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ easily through stem cuttings, a reliable method for expanding your collection. Select a healthy 3-4 inch stem segment with at least one set of leaves. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days in a dry, airy location to prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cutting into a well-draining succulent potting mix; roots typically form within a few weeks.
Repot Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ every one to two years, or when root-bound. Choose a pot only one size larger, as succulents prefer snug conditions. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes. Carefully remove the plant, gently loosen circling roots, and replant at the same depth in fresh succulent mix.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’ may encounter common problems, often due to improper care. Root rot, a frequent issue, stems from overwatering, manifesting as mushy stems or wilting leaves despite moist soil. To address, unpot the plant, trim diseased roots, and repot into fresh, dry soil. Powdery mildew appears as white, powdery spots on leaves, treatable with fungicide or diluted baking soda solution.
Pests like mealybugs or aphids can infest Kalanchoe ‘Cinnamon’. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses; aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects often on new growth. Control both by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency; brown, crispy leaves suggest underwatering or excessive direct sun exposure.