Yes, the genus Kalanchoe is classified as a succulent, belonging to the plant family Crassulaceae. This large and popular genus encompasses approximately 125 to 174 accepted species, most of which are native to Madagascar and tropical regions of Africa. Kalanchoe species are widely cultivated globally, prized for their ornamental value, which includes vibrant, long-lasting flowers and distinctively fleshy foliage. Their popularity as houseplants and garden accents stems from their ability to thrive in arid conditions with minimal attention.
Defining Succulence
Succulence is a physiological adaptation that allows plants to store water in specialized tissues, enabling survival during dry periods. This water storage capacity is primarily located in the leaves or stems, which become thick and fleshy due to the presence of enlarged water-storage cells known as hydrenchyma. The word “succulent” originates from the Latin word succulentus, meaning “juicy.”
To conserve this stored water, many succulents, including Kalanchoe, employ Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). CAM allows the plants to open their stomata (the tiny pores used for gas exchange) only at night when temperatures are cooler, minimizing water loss from evaporation. During the day, the stomata remain closed, and the stored carbon dioxide is used for photosynthesis. Another common adaptation is a thick, waxy cuticle covering the leaf surface, which acts as a barrier to reduce transpiration.
The Diverse Forms of Kalanchoe
The Kalanchoe genus demonstrates remarkable variety, far beyond the common flowering types seen in stores. While all share the foundational succulent traits, their appearance, texture, and growth habits vary significantly across species. One of the most commercially popular forms is Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, often called Florist Kalanchoe, which is cultivated for its dense clusters of small, brightly colored flowers.
Other species are grown for their distinctive foliage, such as Kalanchoe tomentosa, commonly known as the Panda Plant. This plant features thick, gray-green leaves covered in soft, dense, white hairs, giving it a fuzzy texture. A unique group includes the viviparous species, such as Kalanchoe daigremontiana (Mother of Thousands) and Kalanchoe delagoensis (Chandelier Plant). These plants produce tiny, fully formed plantlets along the edges of their leaves, which drop off and root easily.
Essential Care Based on Succulent Nature
Caring for Kalanchoe plants is simplified by understanding their succulent nature, which demands specific conditions to mimic their arid native habitats. The most frequent mistake in cultivation is overwatering, which can quickly lead to lethal root rot because the fleshy leaves hold a substantial water reserve. Therefore, a deep but infrequent watering schedule is necessary, allowing the soil to dry out completely between applications.
The soil medium must provide superior drainage to prevent water retention around the roots. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal, often consisting of regular potting soil blended with gritty materials like perlite or pumice to enhance aeration. These plants require bright, indirect light for healthy growth, typically needing six to eight hours of light daily. Placing a Kalanchoe in a south or west-facing window is often the best indoor location to satisfy requirements.