Kalanchoe uniflora, often called “Coral Bells” or “Trailing Kalanchoe,” is a delightful houseplant known for its unique bell-shaped flowers and cascading growth. This guide provides advice for cultivating this succulent, ensuring it thrives indoors.
Discovering Kalanchoe uniflora
Kalanchoe uniflora is a succulent native to Madagascar, found in its northwestern and northern regions at elevations between 1000 and 2000 meters. It is also known as Coral Bells, Coral Berry, or Trailing Kalanchoe. This perennial succulent herb typically exhibits slender, prostrate, or climbing stems that can grow up to 3.3 feet long, often rooting at the nodes. Its fleshy, bright green leaves are small, up to 1.4 inches long and 0.6 inches wide, sometimes with crenulated or toothed margins. The plant produces pendulous, bell-shaped flowers that are typically bright red to red-violet, or pinkish. These flowers bloom primarily in winter, emerging in clusters of one to three at the tips of the branches.
Kalanchoe uniflora Care Guide
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe uniflora thrives in bright, indirect light conditions, mimicking its natural habitat. Placing it near an east or west-facing window often provides suitable illumination, allowing it to receive ample brightness without harsh direct exposure. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sunlight, especially during summer, can scorch its fleshy leaves and cause discoloration or burns. Insufficient light, conversely, can lead to leggy growth, where stems stretch excessively in search of light, and may also hinder proper flowering.
Watering Needs
As a succulent, Kalanchoe uniflora stores water in its thick leaves and stems, requiring a specific watering approach. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent the common issue of overwatering. Overwatering can lead to mushy stems and root rot, which is detrimental to the plant’s health. When watering, do so thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then ensure no standing water remains in the saucer. Signs of underwatering include shriveling or wilting leaves, indicating the plant needs hydration.
Soil Preferences
Kalanchoe uniflora requires a well-draining, gritty soil mix to prevent waterlogging. A commercial succulent or cactus potting mix is suitable, formulated for quick drainage. You can also create a mix by combining regular potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to enhance aeration and drainage. Clay pots are often preferred as they allow for better root aeration and help wick away excess moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe uniflora prefers moderate temperatures, ideally 64-68°F (18-20°C) for optimal growth and flowering. Temperatures consistently below 61°F (16°C) can impede growth and flowering. The plant is sensitive to cold and can be damaged by temperatures near 40°F (4°C). It tolerates typical household humidity, preferring 30-50%. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or overly humid environments.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe uniflora benefits from fertilization during its active growing season, from mid-spring to late summer. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, bi-weekly or monthly. Alternatively, use slow-release pellets at the beginning of the growing season. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so adhere to recommended dosages. During winter dormancy, reduce or stop fertilization.
Propagating Kalanchoe uniflora
Propagating Kalanchoe uniflora is done through stem cuttings, ideally during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy, mature stem and make a clean cut using disinfected shears, ensuring the cutting is 2-3 inches long with at least two pairs of leaves. Remove the lower leaves to expose a node. After taking the cutting, allow it to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus, which prevents rot.
Once callused, plant the cutting directly into a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, ensuring the exposed node is covered by soil. Cuttings can also be rooted in water, though transferring to soil afterward requires careful acclimation. Place the potted cutting in bright, indirect light and water sparingly until new growth indicates rooting. Cuttings generally root in about three weeks during warmer months.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse leaves, often indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect light, ensuring adequate illumination without scorching. Pruning elongated stems encourages bushier new growth.
A lack of flowering can be attributed to inadequate light, incorrect temperatures, or insufficient rest. Provide bright, indirect light and maintain consistent temperatures between 64-68°F (18-20°C). Kalanchoe uniflora benefits from reduced watering and cooler temperatures to encourage reblooming.
Mushy stems and root rot result from overwatering. If detected, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries completely between waterings. Improve soil drainage with a grittier mix and use pots with ample drainage holes to prevent recurrence.
Kalanchoe uniflora is generally pest resistant, but can be affected by mealybugs and aphids, especially outdoors. Inspect regularly for signs like sticky residue or small clusters. Pests can be removed by hand or by gently spraying affected areas with water.