Family
Crassulaceae
Botanical Name
KALANCHOE prolifera
Plant Common Name
Kalanchoe
General Description
Remarkable on several accounts, this succulent perennial from Madagascar bears large, pinnately divided, green to blue green leaves on thick green rubbery "trunks." Its erect stems can reach head height. Leaves may bear plantlets along their margins. In winter or early spring plants produce towering candelabra-like flowering stalks with large green box-shaped buds that open to reveal greenish-yellow bell-shaped flowers with rose-pink tips. Plantlets form along the inflorescence after the flowers fade, soon dropping to the ground and rooting. Plants also spread via underground stolons.
Like most succulents, this one requires porous well-drained soil and ample light. Water only when soil is dry, and withhold water in winter. This plant thrives in full sun in moderate climates but needs midday shade in hot areas. It tolerates only light frost. Rejuvenate leggy old plants by pruning heavily. This succulent makes a spectacular specimen for warm-climate gardens or large sunny rooms. It is considered an invasive weed in some areas including parts of South Africa and Australia.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Sand
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Xeric/Desert, Drought Tolerant
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Habit
Upright/Erect
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Green, Yellow Green
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green, Blue Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Blue Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green, Blue Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green, Blue Green
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Bark Color
Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Bold
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Feature Plant, Foundation, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Attracts
Hummingbirds
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Self-Sowing
Yes