Kalanchoe Red is a popular succulent admired for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers. Its ease of care makes it a favored houseplant and a common gift, offering a rewarding addition for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Identifying Kalanchoe Red
Kalanchoe Red, scientifically known as Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is native to Madagascar. This evergreen succulent typically grows between 6 and 18 inches tall, featuring a bushy, upright habit. Its thick, fleshy leaves are oval-shaped with scalloped edges, usually appearing in a glossy dark green, though some varieties may exhibit a subtle red tint along the margins, especially with ample sunlight. Its most notable feature is dense clusters of small, four-petaled red flowers, which emerge above the foliage in umbels or cymes. These vibrant blooms contrast boldly against the succulent’s rich green leaves.
Kalanchoe Red Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe Red thrives in bright, indirect light indoors. Placing the plant near a south or west-facing window provides ample brightness without the intensity of direct midday sun. Harsh, direct sunlight, especially during warmer months, can scorch the leaves and hinder blooming. If natural light is insufficient, a full-spectrum grow light can supplement, typically for 8 to 12 hours daily to encourage flowering.
Watering Practices
Kalanchoe Red is drought-tolerant, storing water in its fleshy leaves. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot. Always allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, checking the top 1 to 2 inches of soil before rehydrating. When watering, do so thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot’s bottom, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. During winter or dormant periods, reduce watering frequency significantly.
Soil and Potting
Kalanchoe Red requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root issues. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable, or you can create your own by blending regular potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to enhance drainage and aeration. Pots must have drainage holes to ensure proper water runoff. Repotting is needed when the plant becomes root-bound, usually every one to two years, preferably in early spring.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe Red prefers average room temperatures, ranging between 60°F and 85°F (15.5°C to 29°C). Consistent temperatures are beneficial, as sudden fluctuations can stress the plant. This succulent tolerates low to average humidity levels well. Protect Kalanchoe from extreme cold or frost, as it is not cold-hardy and can suffer damage below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilization
Kalanchoe Red is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from occasional fertilization during its active growing season, from spring to early fall. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength approximately once a month or every two to four weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization entirely during the winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Troubleshooting Common Kalanchoe Red Issues
Common issues with Kalanchoe Red often indicate a need for care adjustments. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering or underwatering, while wilting may point to watering problems or even root rot if the soil remains too wet. Leggy growth (stretched, sparse stems) signals insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location.
Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Manage these by manual removal, spraying with water, or using neem oil or insecticidal soap, applied carefully to avoid leaf damage. Overwatering causes root rot, manifesting as mushy stems. Address this by improving drainage and allowing the soil to dry. Brown patches on leaves indicate sunburn from too much direct sunlight.
Encouraging Rebloom and Maintenance
To encourage Kalanchoe Red to rebloom, deadhead spent flowers by pinching or snipping them off at their base. This redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to developing new blooms and maintaining overall vigor. Kalanchoe is a short-day plant, meaning its flowering cycle is triggered by specific light conditions.
To initiate reblooming, the plant requires a period of 12 to 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for approximately six to eight weeks. This can be achieved by placing the plant in a dark closet or covering it with a box each evening. During this dark period, maintain cooler nighttime temperatures (around 60°F / 15.5°C) and reduce watering and fertilization. Light pruning of leggy stems can also help maintain a compact, bushy shape.