Kalanchoe succulents are an extraordinary genus of plants that belong to the Crassulaceae family. Known for their unique foliage, resilient nature, and stunning flowers, these succulents have gained popularity among plant enthusiasts and interior decorators alike.
In this guide, we will explore various types of Kalanchoe, each possessing distinct characteristics that make them special. From the well-known Kalanchoe blossfeldiana to the visually striking Kalanchoe luciae, there is much to discover in this fascinating group of plants.
Kalanchoe arborescens
Kalanchoe arborescens, commonly known as the “mother of thousands,” is notable for its shrub-like structure and ability to thrive in various environments. Native to Madagascar, this succulent can grow up to four feet tall. It features thick, fleshy leaves that are grayish-green, often with a slightly serrated edge.
One of the most appealing aspects of Kalanchoe arborescens is its stunning inflorescence, showcasing clusters of tubular red or orange flowers. This bloom typically occurs in the winter months, adding a vibrant splash of color during the dreary season. Gardeners appreciate this succulent not only for its beauty but also for its resilience to drought and its ease of care. Kalanchoe arborescens requires bright, indirect light and minimal watering, making it a perfect choice for beginners.
Kalanchoe beauverdii
If you’re seeking a Kalanchoe that stands out for its unusual foliage, Kalanchoe beauverdii is an excellent choice. This succulent has strikingly elongated leaves that boast a unique pale green color, often adorned with red margins. Each leaf forms a rosette at the end of long stems, which can give the plant a particularly sculptural appearance.
Kalanchoe beauverdii thrives in bright light and prefers well-draining soil. This succulent produces small, bell-shaped flowers that appear in clusters atop the plant when mature. The flowers typically bloom in shades of orange or yellow, which contrast beautifully with the foliage. Its rarity in cultivation makes it a delightful find for succulent enthusiasts looking to diversify their collections.
Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Oak Leaf’
Another exciting cultivar in the Kalanchoe beharensis family is ‘Oak Leaf.’ This variety derives its name from the shape of its leaves, which resemble the lobes of oak leaves. The distinct shape, coupled with the waxy texture of the foliage, makes this plant visually appealing and a popular choice among collectors.
Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Oak Leaf’ enjoys similar care preferences to its relatives—bright light, excellent drainage, and minimal water. When conditions are just right, this plant may also reward you with clusters of yellow flowers during its blooming period. Its unique leaf shape adds diversity and charm to any succulent garden.
Kalanchoe beharensis var subnuda
Kalanchoe beharensis var subnuda is a lesser-known variety that highlights the incredible diversity within the Kalanchoe genus. This plant features similarly shaped leaves as the typical Kalanchoe beharensis but is characterized by its more subdued color palette and slightly smaller size.
Growing this succulent requires the same care techniques as other Kalanchoe plants, thriving in bright, indirect light and requiring minimal watering. Its unassuming beauty makes Kalanchoe subnuda a unique alternative for succulent lovers looking to expand their collections with less common varieties.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, popularly known as the flaming katy, is a staple in succulent houses worldwide. Its vibrant flowers range from reds to yellows and pinks, blooming profusely throughout the year. This colorful display is one of the main reasons it has become a popular houseplant choice.
The leaves of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana are thick and glossy, arranged in rosettes, creating an attractive green backdrop for its bold blossoms. This plant is typically small, reaching heights of around a foot. It enjoys bright light and benefits from regular, but not excessive, watering. The ease of propagation and care makes Kalanchoe blossfeldiana an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Kalanchoe bracteata
Kalanchoe bracteata is a lesser-known succulent that draws attention due to its unique leaf structure, which displays a distinct and intricate arrangement. The plant grows upright, producing thick, grayish-green leaves that have a slightly wavy look.
Kalanchoe bracteata can produce small clusters of star-like yellow flowers, typically blooming during the warmer months. This succulent thrives in bright indirect light and prefers well-draining soil. It’s also fairly drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering. Its striking appearance makes it a great addition to any succulent collection.
Kalanchoe carnea
Kalanchoe carnea, often termed the “chandelier plant,” is a charming succulent that deserves attention for its distinctive structure. This plant forms a compact rosette formation with thick, fleshy leaves that exhibit a rounded, pendulous shape reminiscent of hanging chandeliers.
In addition to its lovely foliage, Kalanchoe carnea produces clusters of small pink flowers that add to its beauty when in bloom. This succulent prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil and can survive with minimal care, making it a fantastic choice for indoor environments. Its unique shape and delightful blooms make Kalanchoe carnea a favorite among succulent lovers.
Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Kalanchoe daigremontiana, commonly known as the “mother of thousands,” is remarkable due to its unique propagation method. This succulent can produce small plantlets along the edges of its leaves, which can easily fall off and take root in the soil, creating a mini garden around the parent plant.
The leaves of Kalanchoe daigremontiana are long and serrated, exhibiting an unusual green and purple coloration. The plant also produces clusters of tubular flowers that vary from pink to red. Given its spreading nature, this succulent can fill out a space quickly, making it an attractive choice for those looking to create lively, dense gardens.
Kalanchoe delagoensis
Also known as the “chandelier plant,” Kalanchoe delagoensis features long, slender leaves often adorned with small plantlets along the edges. This succulent is known for its fast growth and ability to produce numerous offspring, making it a favorite among gardeners who appreciate propagation.
Kalanchoe delagoensis produces beautiful yellow or orange flowering clusters, creating a visually appealing display. Preferring bright, sunny environments, this succulent blooms in the spring and summer, requiring minimal care and attention throughout the rest of the year.
Kalanchoe eriophylla
Kalanchoe eriophylla is a charming succulent characterized by its small, round leaves, which form tight rosettes reminiscent of miniature roses. This petite plant stands out for its moderate growth habit, making it an ideal choice for container gardening or small spaces.
When it blooms, Kalanchoe eriophylla produces clusters of delicate pink flowers that can create a stunning visual display. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering. Its enchanting appearance and compact size make it a lovely addition to any collection.
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi is another popular succulent, known for its long, narrow leaves that can often take on a grayish-blue hue. The plant tends to grow upright, giving it a distinct vertical presence in a garden setting.
Unique to this succulent are its yellow, tubular flowers that bloom in clusters on tall stalks, typically appearing in late summer. Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi prefers bright light and well-draining soil, thriving with minimal care. Once established, this succulent can become a standout feature with its elongated form and attractive blooms.
Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi f. variegata ‘Aurora Borealis’
The Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi f. variegata ‘Aurora Borealis’ is a very sought-after cultivar, known for its captivating pastel hues that shift with light exposure. The colors typically range from soft pinks to greens, creating an enchanting visual effect reminiscent of the aurora itself.
Holding similar care requirements as its parent varieties, this Kalanchoe loves bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It may also produce small clusters of yellow flowers, although many prefer it due to its stunning foliage. ‘Aurora Borealis’ is a fantastic choice for those wanting to attract attention with unique color patterns in their collections.
Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri
Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri, commonly known as the “paddle plant,” is notable for its large, fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves that can create a bold statement in your collection. This succulent’s broad leaves have a smooth surface and typically grow in a rosette formation.
Flowers of Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri consist of elongated clusters filled with delicate yellow blooms. This species thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Its fast growth habit and easy maintenance make it a fantastic option for both novice and experienced gardeners looking for an easy-care succulent.
Kalanchoe grandiflora
The Kalanchoe grandiflora, known for its grand appearance, is characterized by its strikingly large, glossy leaves and impressive clusters of bright flowers that can bloom in shades of red, pink, or orange. This succulent is robust and can reach considerable heights, bringing a lush presence to any indoor or outdoor setting.
It thrives well with bright sunlight and minimal watering, making it a hassle-free choice for those who want vibrant blooms without intensive care. The combination of its radiant foliage and flowers make Kalanchoe grandiflora a delightful addition to gardens or as a centerpiece in a succulent display.
Kalanchoe humilis
Kalanchoe humilis is a compact succulent that showcases a delightful display of rosettes formed from its fleshy leaves. Its round leaves typically have a silvery-green hue, adding a touch of elegance to any collection.
This succulent produces whimsical clusters of tubular flowers, often blooming in bright shades of red or orange. Kalanchoe humilis thrives in well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Its compact size and charming foliage make it an ideal choice for terrariums or small pots.
Kalanchoe laciniata
Kalanchoe laciniata is a visually striking succulent characterized by its deeply lobed leaves. The unique foliage varying from a green to a grayish tint forms rosettes that catch attention with their intricate shapes.
This particular succulent will produce small clusters of white flowers, which contrast beautifully with its textured leaves. Kalanchoe laciniata enjoys bright light yet adapts to partial shade. Its elegant foliage and blooming properties make it a captivating choice for any succulent lover looking to diversify their plant collection.
Kalanchoe laxiflora
Known colloquially as the “loose flower,” Kalanchoe laxiflora grows in a sprawling manner, making it an excellent ground cover. Its small, ovate leaves are deep green and tend to cluster together, creating a lush, green carpet when planted in groups.
When in bloom, Kalanchoe laxiflora produces delicate clusters of bright pink flowers, creating an eye-catching display that attracts pollinators. This succulent thrives best in bright light and well-draining soil and requires minimal watering. Its ground-covering nature makes it a wonderful addition to succulent gardens and outdoor settings.
Kalanchoe longiflora
Kalanchoe longiflora, known for its elongated flower spikes, features thin, strap-like leaves that form tight rosettes. This succulent can grow fairly tall, adding an impressive vertical dimension to your plant collection.
The long, tubular flowers bloom in beautiful clusters and are typically in varying shades of red and orange. Kalanchoe longiflora prefers bright, warm temperatures and well-draining soil. Its elegant blooms in combination with a tall stature make it a captivating choice for any succulent garden.
Kalanchoe luciae
Kalanchoe luciae, popularly known as “flapjack” or “paddle plant,” is celebrated for its broader, paddle-like leaves that can develop stunning colors in bright light. These leaves typically exhibit a beautiful blue-grey hue with the potential to accentuate red edges when exposed to direct sunlight.
This succulent is drought-tolerant and thrives best under full sun or bright indirect light. It produces clusters of small, red flowers, usually appearing in favorable growing conditions. Kalanchoe luciae adds a bold statement with its unique leaf shape and color changes, making it an excellent choice for collectors seeking vibrant additions.
Kalanchoe luciae ‘Fantastic’
Kalanchoe luciae ‘Fantastic’ is a standout cultivar of the flapjack variety, showcasing exaggerated paddles and vibrant colors. The leaves can range from a soft green to fuchsia, especially under optimal lighting conditions, creating an eye-catching display.
Like its parent plant, Kalanchoe luciae ‘Fantastic’ thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers infrequent watering. Its ability to develop striking colorations along with its robust growth makes it an unforgettable feature in any succulent collection.
Kalanchoe marmorata
Kalanchoe marmorata, often referred to as the “pansy leaf,” is known for the distinctive marbling on its leaves. The leaves display patterns of varying shades of green and gray, creating a beautiful visual texture that often resembles the appearance of marble.
Typically, Kalanchoe marmorata produces clusters of small pink or yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Care for this succulent includes providing bright light and allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Its unique leaf patterns and charming blooms make it a delightful addition to any collection.
Kalanchoe marnieriana
Kalanchoe marnieriana, sometimes called the “pencil plant,” is a unique succulent characterized by its elongated, pencil-like stems adorned with distinctive waxy leaves. The plant has a striking appearance, standing tall with a spreading growth habit that makes it an attractive choice for decorative purposes.
Kalanchoe marnieriana can produce bright yellow flowers that pop against its green stems, especially during the warmer months. It thrives well in bright, sunny conditions and prefers dry soil between waterings. This succulent’s distinct shape and flowering habits make it a favored choice among succulent collectors and gardeners alike.
Kalanchoe millotii
Kalanchoe millotii is a lesser-known species noted for its grayish-green foliage that is covered with a fine, white hairs or fuzz—giving it a unique, textured appearance. The leaves are spatula-shaped, lending an interesting visual element to any succulent collection.
This succulent can also produce small clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers during the growing season. It thrives in bright sunlight and well-draining soil. Its unique texture and distinct foliage make it an appealing option for those searching for something different in their plant collections.
Kalanchoe miniata
Kalanchoe miniata is a charming small succulent that is easy to grow and care for. It features compact rosettes of small, rounded leaves that are deep green in color. The plant may produce bright orange or red tubular flowers, creating a beautiful visual spectacle when in bloom.
This species enjoys bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. As a small succulent, Kalanchoe miniata is perfect for indoor spaces or smaller garden arrangements, bringing a delightful burst of color and charm.
Kalanchoe nyikae
Kalanchoe nyikae is a fascinating succulent species known for its distinctive leaf structure. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and can vary in color from vibrant green to bluish-yellow. This unique coloration creates an interesting visual appeal in succulent collections.
This plant can produce clusters of yellow or orange flowers during blooming seasons, offering a delightful touch of color. Kalanchoe nyikae thrives best in bright, indirect light and requires infrequent watering. Its unique appearance makes it an excellent consideration for collectors seeking to showcase diversity in their gardens.
Kalanchoe orgyalis
Kalanchoe orgyalis, commonly referred to as the “panda plant,” is a visually striking succulent recognized for its velvety leaves that emit a soft, fuzzy appearance. The leaves are often grayish-green with reddish edges, making them particularly eye-catching.
This succulent is well-suited for indoor growing and can yield clusters of yellow, tubular flowers when exposed to optimal light conditions. Kalanchoe orgyalis enjoys bright indirect sunlight and benefits from minimal watering. Its fluffy leaves contribute texture and dimension to any collection, making it a favorite among succulent lovers.
Kalanchoe paniculata
Kalanchoe paniculata is an upright succulent that stands out for its large, paddle-shaped leaves that grow in tightly packed clusters. The plant can reach impressive heights, often creating a picturesque shape that enhances any indoor or outdoor space.
In the blooming season, Kalanchoe paniculata can offer beautiful clusters of small pink, red, or yellow flowers that create a stunning display against its green backdrop. This succulent enjoys bright indirect light and lush, well-draining soil to thrive. Its impressive form and ability to attract pollinators make it an excellent addition to any garden collection.
Kalanchoe ‘Pink Butterflies’
Kalanchoe ‘Pink Butterflies’ is a charming, compact succulent that’s highly sought after for its unique leaf shape and stunning colors. The leaves feature crinkled edges that resemble the wings of butterflies, making it a whimsical addition to any collection.
The plant may produce clusters of pink flowers, which adds even more charm during the blooming season. Kalanchoe ‘Pink Butterflies’ prefers bright light and requires careful watering to avoid root rot. Its delightful appearance and manageable size make it a great choice for succulent enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Kalanchoe pinnata
Kalanchoe pinnata is renowned for its unique propagation method. The plant produces small plantlets at the edges of its leaves, allowing for easy reproduction. Often recognized as “air plant” or “life plant,” this succulent can display lush green foliage and has an intriguing growing habit.
Kalanchoe pinnata blooms small clusters of bell-shaped flowers, typically in pink or red colors, capturing attention with their beauty. It thrives with minimal care, preferring bright sunlight and sparse watering, making it a favorite for gardeners who enjoy ease of maintenance.
Kalanchoe prolifera
Kalanchoe prolifera is similar to Kalanchoe pinnata, boasting a similar ability to produce miniature plantlets along the edges of its leaves. However, Kalanchoe prolifera tends to have larger, flatter leaves and may grow more upright, providing greater height in a collection.
This succulent offers clusters of pink or red flowers when in bloom, adding a delightful touch of color to your garden. Kalanchoe prolifera is well-suited to bright light and thrives with minimal watering. Its propagation abilities coupled with visual appeal make it a favorite among succulent collectors.
Kalanchoe pubescens
Kalanchoe pubescens is an enchanting succulent characterized by its fuzzy leaves, which take on a soft green hue. This plant is known for its compact growth, making it an ideal option for small spaces or container gardening.
The flowers produced by Kalanchoe pubescens are typically bright red or pink, creating a stunning contrast against its soft foliage. This succulent prefers well-drained soil and receives plenty of sunlight. Its charming appearance and compact size make it a delightful addition to any collection.
Kalanchoe pumila
Kalanchoe pumila is a low-growing succulent that showcases silvery-gray leaves that are densely clustered together. This succulent is a popular ground cover option, especially for landscapes featuring xeriscaping techniques due to its drought tolerance.
This variety of Kalanchoe can produce clusters of small yellow flowers when subjected to sunlight and well-drained soils. Kalanchoe pumila thrives under bright light conditions, and its low growth habit makes it ideal for borders or as a filler in garden beds.
Kalanchoe rhombopilosa
Kalanchoe rhombopilosa is an intriguing species characterized by its diamond-shaped leaves. The unique leaf structure adds an architectural element to succulent arrangements, making it a show-stopper in collections.
This plant produces clusters of delightful yellow flowers that emerge above its foliage during favorable conditions, creating a stunning visual display. Kalanchoe rhombopilosa enjoys bright light and requires sparse watering. Its distinctive leaves and charming blooms make it a captivating addition to any garden collection.
Kalanchoe rotundifolia
Kalanchoe rotundifolia also known as the “round leaf,” is characterized by its circular, fleshy leaves. The plant tends to grow upright and can reach a height of about two feet, showcasing its round leaves that can take on varying shades of green.
When in bloom, Kalanchoe rotundifolia produces clusters of yellow flowers, which adds an additional layer of interest to the plant. This succulent thrives best in well-drained soil, enjoying bright indirect light and minimal watering. The rounded foliage and capacity for blooms create a delightful portrayal for any garden enthusiast.
Kalanchoe scapigera
Kalanchoe scapigera features an upright growth habit and is recognized for its broad, flat leaves. This succulent can grow quite tall, making a bold statement in any collection. It produces tall flowering stalks, often featuring bright yellow blooms that attract pollinators.
This species prefers bright light and requires well-draining soil to avoid root rot. With its striking leaf shape and impressive flowering stalks, Kalanchoe scapigera makes an appealing addition to gardens and succulent arrangements.
Kalanchoe sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis is characterized by its angular leaves that form distinctive six-sided shapes. It typically grows in a rosette formation, making it visually striking and appealing in arrangements.
Kalanchoe sexangularis produces clusters of delicate yellow flowers, typically appearing in warmer months. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and enjoys bright, indirect light. Its unique leaf shapes and lovely blooms create visual interest, making it a fascinating choice for succulent lovers.
Kalanchoe synsepala
Kalanchoe synsepala is a lesser-known species gaining popularity among collectors for its stunningly unique structure. With large, fleshy, and deeply lobed leaves, this succulent presents an architectural element in gardening.
The flower clusters of Kalanchoe synsepala can be bright yellow, adding to its visual allure when in bloom. Preferring bright light and minimal watering, this plant is easy to care for, making it a fine choice for home gardens seeking diversity.
Kalanchoe ‘Tessa’
Kalanchoe ‘Tessa’ is a delightful cultivar that exhibits charming waxy rosettes of leaves. Known for its compact size, this succulent is particularly popular for indoor environments due to its manageable growth habit.
This lovely plant produces clusters of soft pink flowers, adding a delicate touch of color to your indoor or outdoor display. Kalanchoe ‘Tessa’ thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil for optimal growth. Its charming nature and ease of care make it a favored pick for succulent enthusiasts.
Kalanchoe tetraphylla
Kalanchoe tetraphylla is distinctive for its unique four-leaf arrangement, which creates an appealing symmetrical design. This succulent can thrive both indoors and outdoors, expanding its usability among plant lovers.
When blooming, Kalanchoe tetraphylla produces small clusters of yellow flowers that gracefully rise above the foliage. It does best attuned to bright, indirect light while enjoying a dry soil environment. This intriguing species elevates any collection through its unique leaf design and flowering season.
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora
Commonly referred to as the “paddle plant,” Kalanchoe thyrsiflora boasts thick, paddle-like leaves that can take on vibrant hues ranging from green to reddish when exposed to ample sunlight. This striking appearance makes it a popular choice for succulent displays.
Kalanchoe thyrsiflora can produce clusters of small yellow flowers, creating an additional element of interest when in bloom. This succulent thrives in bright, indirect light and enjoys well-drained soil with minimal watering. Its robust growth and dramatic foliage make it an excellent addition to any succulent garden.
Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’
Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is a unique cultivar recognized for its dark brown leaf edges juxtaposed against the soft green hue. This variation of the panda plant delivers exceptional visual appeal, especially when viewed up close.
This succulent prefers bright light and a well-drained soil mix, thriving with minimal care and attention. While its flowers are small, they are a delightful addition to the overall visual experience. ‘Chocolate Soldier’ is an outstanding choice for those interested in cultivating a dynamic range of colors in their collection.
Kalanchoe tomentosa f. variegata
Kalanchoe tomentosa f. variegata is a striking variant of the already captivating Kalanchoe tomentosa. This cultivar is cherished for its creamy white and green variegated leaves, which offer a fresh perspective on the already popular panda plant.
Just like its relatives, this succulent thrives under bright light and prefers to have its soil dry out between waterings. While primarily appreciated for its excellent foliage, it may also reward you with charming clusters of yellow flowers when the conditions are right. Its variety and beauty create a stunning element for any succulent collection.
Kalanchoe tubiflora
Kalanchoe tubiflora, usually termed “mother of thousands,” is known for its extraordinary propagation method. The plant produces small plantlets along the leaf edges, which can drop off and root easily, allowing for rapid reproduction.
This succulent has elongated leaves covered with a waxy film and can produce clusters of orange or red tubular flowers. Kalanchoe tubiflora thrives in bright light and well-draining soil, benefiting from infrequent watering. Its remarkable ability to reproduce makes it a fascinating addition to any garden or indoor arrangement.
Kalanchoe uniflora
Kalanchoe uniflora, often distinguished by its compact growth habit, features rounded leaves that fit snugly together in a rosette formation. This succulent is known for its charming appearance and low-maintenance care requirements.
The plant can produce delicate clusters of pink or white flowers during its blooming season. Kalanchoe uniflora thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering to flourish. Its compact size and attractive flowers make it a delightful choice for indoor spaces or small gardens.
