Devils Backbone Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is a genus of tropical, perennial succulents native to Africa and Asia. It is a member of the stonecrop or orpine family (Crassulaceae) and has 174 accepted species. It is prized for its long-lasting, colorful, showy flowers and interesting, succulent foliage. Toothed succulent leaves, thick branched stems, and cymose inflorescences are key ID features. The genus name, Kalanchoe, is derived from the Chinese words kalan chau, meaning "that which falls and grows." This references the species such as Kalanchoe daigremontiana that have leaves that produce plantlets that drop off and produce new plants where they land.  

Outside of the tropics, this plant prefers interior sites with bright indirect sunlight, dry soil, and low relative humidity. Water these plants well and then allow the soil to dry out between waterings. These plants are winter hardy in zones 9 to 12. They prefer temperatures between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be planted in a container and brought indoors over the winter before the temperatures drop below 50 degrees F. They are also grown as a specialty desert-type plant and for temporary color. Being a succulent, they are drought tolerant once established. Plants of this genus may be propagated by division, offsets, stem cuttings, or leaf cuttings. 

Kalanchoe plants may be compact, bushy, trailing, erect, shrub-like or tree-like. Their size varies depending on the species. Most species range between 6 inches to 2 feet tall and equally as wide, but some grow up to 3-4 feet tall. Their leaves are fleshy and thick which allows them to store water. The flowers can appear in clusters or single blooms depending on the species. The bloom color is vibrant and the shades vary from red, orange, yellow, pink, or white. To encourage blooming, these plants need 12 hours of darkness and less than 12 hours of daylight for 6 weeks. Some species of Kalanchoe are viviparous and produce plantlets at leaf edges.

This genus of plants are often used as ornamental plants in rock gardens, containers, or houseplants. The foliage is unique and will add color and texture to your landscape or houseplant collection.

• Leaves are succulent, flattened, and toothed
• Flowers are salverform, have 4 petals, and are in cymes to umbels
• Flowers are sticky

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for mealybugs, aphids and brown scale. Root rot can result from overwatering. Powdery mildew can also occur.

The plants in this genus are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach of children and pets. Wear protective gloves when handling these plants to prevent contact dermatitis.

VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.