Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a small shrub typically grown as an annual in cooler climates. It is a symmetrical plant with 2-5 feet tall and dark green leaves, and bears brightly colored flowers in the late autumn to early winter. The four petal flowers come in a a wide range of shades, from dark reds and pinks to oranges, golds and whites.

The plant enjoys full sun, but does tolerate some shade. It requires moderate amounts of water throughout the warmer months, but care must be taken not to overwater it, as too much can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to pests and diseases.

In cultivation, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is best suited to USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown in cooler climates as an annual in pots. When planting, ensure the area is sheltered from strong winds and provides plenty of sun, and select a fast draining soil mixture, such as one with a large proportion of perlite and/or sand. For best results, regularly fertilize and water, and bring the potted plant indoors during the colder months.

This small shrub is tolerant of flooding and frost, however, it is not cold hardy and extreme temperatures can cause significant damage to the branches and foliage. In order to protect the plant, it is best to either bring it inside, or to place in a sheltered and sunny spot.

Similar plants:

• Bryophyllum beauverdii, Kalanchoe beauverdii (Kalanchoe)
• Bryophyllum daigremontianum, Kalanchoe crenato-daigremontiana, Kalanchoe daigremontiana (Mother of Thousands, Mother of Millions, Devils Backbone, Mexican Hat Plant)
• Bryophyllum delagoense, Kalanchoe delagoensis, Kalanchoe tubiflora, Bryophyllum tubiflorum, Bryophyllum verticillatum (Chandelier plant)
• Bryophyllum fedtchenkoi, Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi (Kalanchoe)
• Bryophyllum gastonis-bonnieri, Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri, Kalanchoe adolph-engleri, Bryophyllum adolph-engleri (Giant kalanchoe, Donkey Ears; Life Plant; Miracle Leaf; Sprouting Leaf; Sprout Leaf Plant; Leaf of Life; Good Luck Leaf, Tree Of Life)
• Bryophyllum pinnatum, Kalanchoe pinnata, Bryophyllum calycinum (Bahamas Breath Plant, Hawaiian Air Plant)
• Bryophyllum proliferum, Kalanchoe prolifera (Blooming Boxes)
• Kalanchoe beharensis (Velvet Leaf)
• Kalanchoe blossfeldiana hybrids (Kalanchoe, Christmas Kalanchoe)
• Kalanchoe dinklagei (Kalanchoe)