Kalanchoe rotundifolia, also known as Common Kalanchoe or Round-Leaf Kalanchoe, is a distinctive succulent in the Crassulaceae family. Valued for its unique appearance, resilience, and low maintenance, it is a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.
Plant Characteristics and Natural Habitat
Kalanchoe rotundifolia is a sparsely branched shrublet, typically growing up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall, sometimes reaching 2 meters (6.5 feet). Its slender stems bear fleshy leaves that are usually blue-green, sometimes yellowish-green, and often covered with a powdery bloom. While its name suggests round leaves, their shape can vary, appearing elliptic, spatulate, triangular, or lance-shaped, up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. These leaves are somewhat brittle and can snap easily.
During fall and early winter, the plant produces erect flower stalks up to 16 inches tall, bearing clusters of deep red to orange, tubular flowers with yellowish or greenish bases. It is widely distributed across southern Africa, including South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Socotra. In its natural environment, it thrives in shade or half-shade, often found in dense stands beneath trees or shrubs in bushveld, and on sandy or rocky soils, demonstrating drought tolerance.
Growing and Caring for Kalanchoe Rotundifolia
Cultivating Kalanchoe rotundifolia involves understanding its specific needs.
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe rotundifolia thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, needing at least six hours daily. While it tolerates some morning sun, intense midday sun can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and reduced flowering, while too much direct exposure can burn leaf tips.
Watering Practices
Proper watering involves deep but infrequent applications, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. This prevents root rot from excessive moisture. Monitoring the plant’s fleshy leaves for signs of water distress, such as shriveling, helps determine when watering is needed. During periods of reduced growth, like hot summer months or winter, watering frequency should be significantly decreased.
Soil Preferences
This succulent requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging around its roots. A sandy, gritty composition is preferred, making cactus or succulent potting mixes an excellent choice. Incorporating amendments like perlite or coarse sand enhances drainage and aeration, which is crucial for root health. The ideal soil pH for Kalanchoe rotundifolia ranges from slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe rotundifolia grows best in moderate to warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). While it withstands brief temperature drops, it is sensitive to prolonged cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). If grown outdoors in colder climates, bring the plant indoors when overnight temperatures consistently fall below 55°F (13°C) to prevent frost damage. This plant prefers low humidity environments, aligning with its succulent nature.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Kalanchoe rotundifolia sparingly and only during its active growing season, from spring through early fall. A diluted succulent-specific or balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 2-4-4 NPK formula, applied about once a month at half strength, is sufficient. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so adhere to recommended dilution rates. During its dormant period in winter, reduce or stop fertilization entirely.
Propagating Kalanchoe Rotundifolia
Kalanchoe rotundifolia is easily propagated from both stem and leaf cuttings.
For stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem several inches long. After making the cut, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for a few days to prevent rot and disease. Optionally, dip the callused end in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop, ensuring the cutting receives bright, indirect light for optimal rooting. Leaf cuttings can also be used by carefully plucking a healthy leaf, allowing it to callus, and then inserting it into moist, well-draining soil.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
While hardy, Kalanchoe rotundifolia can face common problems, often due to improper care.
Overwatering is a frequent concern, leading to root rot and mushy stems or leaves. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel, indicating the plant needs moisture. Insufficient light results in etiolation, characterized by stretched, leggy growth, while too much direct sun can lead to scorched leaves. Pests such as mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and red spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, particularly if conditions are not ideal. These problems can often be resolved by adjusting watering habits, optimizing light exposure, improving air circulation, and treating pests with appropriate horticultural solutions.
Kalanchoe rotundifolia is toxic if ingested by pets or humans, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset.