Kalanchoe laxiflora, also known as “Milky Widow’s Thrill,” is a succulent subshrub. It features fleshy, gray-green leaves that can develop reddish margins as they age. Native to central Madagascar, Kalanchoe laxiflora is well-suited to rocky, dry environments. It grows up to 20 inches tall and produces clusters of orange-reddish, bell-shaped flowers on stalks 1 to 2 feet long, typically blooming in spring. Its distinctive form and attractive blooms make it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor settings, depending on the climate.
Kalanchoe laxiflora Care
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe laxiflora thrives in bright, sunny locations. Outdoors, it tolerates full sun to partial shade, though partial shade is preferable in areas with intense summer heat to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, position it near a bright, south-facing window in winter. During summer, an east or west-facing window can prevent leaf burn from excessive direct sun.
Insufficient light causes the plant to become leggy or stretched. Too much intense, direct sunlight can burn leaf tips, causing discoloration or scorching.
Watering Techniques
Kalanchoe laxiflora is drought-tolerant, storing water in its fleshy leaves. Overwatering is the most common issue, leading to root rot. To prevent this, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot, then discard any excess from the saucer.
Watering needs vary seasonally. The plant requires more frequent watering during warmer summer months. During autumn and spring, moderate irrigation is appropriate. In winter, when growth slows, reduce watering significantly, perhaps to once every 3-4 weeks.
Water in the morning, avoiding midday or afternoon, especially when humidity or heat is high. Avoid spraying water directly on leaves; instead, water the soil near the root zone.
Soil and Potting
Kalanchoe laxiflora requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. A specialized cactus or succulent soil mix is ideal, or a homemade blend of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or grit. This combination improves aeration and drainage. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.5.
Terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots are recommended due to their porous nature, allowing for better aeration and moisture evaporation. Pots must have drainage holes. While Kalanchoe laxiflora can remain in the same container for several years, repotting every 2-3 years, or when root-bound, provides fresh nutrients and promotes healthier growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe laxiflora thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 61°F and 80°F (16°C and 27°C). It is sensitive to cold and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures; prolonged exposure below 55°F (13°C) can cause damage or death. If temperatures drop, bring potted plants indoors or cover outdoor plants with frost cloths.
Humidity levels do not significantly impact the plant’s growth, though high humidity can encourage fungal issues. Average room humidity is sufficient for indoor plants. Good air circulation can help mitigate problems associated with higher humidity.
Fertilizer Needs
Kalanchoe laxiflora benefits from moderate fertilization during its active growing season, from spring through summer. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 or 2-4-4 NPK ratio, diluted to half strength, monthly. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter.
Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive leafy growth or root burn. Water the plant a day before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. Slowly pour the diluted fertilizer solution onto the soil, avoiding the leaves.
Propagating Kalanchoe laxiflora
Kalanchoe laxiflora propagates readily from leaf and stem cuttings, or offsets. Take cuttings during the growing season, spring or summer, for best results. For stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem a few inches long with at least two leaves. Make a clean cut just above a leaf node.
After taking cuttings, allow them to “callous over” for two to three days in a warm, dry place. This process helps the cut end dry and form a protective layer, reducing rot and disease. Once calloused, plant cuttings in a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until new roots and growth appear, usually within a few weeks. Some Kalanchoe varieties also produce small plantlets or offsets along their leaf margins, which can be gently removed and planted directly into moist soil.
Addressing Common Problems
Overwatering is a frequent cause of problems for Kalanchoe laxiflora, leading to root rot. If root rot is suspected, repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil after trimming away any affected roots.
Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch and become leggy, with elongated stems and pale leaves. Move the plant to a brighter location with ample indirect sunlight to correct this. Pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can also affect Kalanchoe plants, feeding on sap and causing distorted leaves or stunted growth. Inspect the plant regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Kalanchoe laxiflora Toxicity
All Kalanchoe succulents, including Kalanchoe laxiflora, are toxic to pets and can cause stomach upset in humans if ingested. These plants contain harmful cardiac glycosides. Symptoms in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate, and stomach pain.
If a pet ingests any part of the plant, seek veterinary attention immediately. The toxins are particularly concentrated in the flowers. Keep Kalanchoe laxiflora out of reach of children and pets.