Kalanchoe blossfeldiana aka Flaming Katy
Taxonomy
Common names
Flaming Katy, Kalanchoe, Madagascar Widow's ThrillHow to care for Flaming Katy
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Flaming Katy due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Flaming Katy does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
When growing the Flaming Katy, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Flaming Katy prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Flaming Katy to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Flaming Katy is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
Flaming Katy plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.
Fertilizer
The Flaming Katy should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Flaming Katy grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Flaming Katy’s native range is Madagascar and Tropical Africa.
Flower
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Flaming Katy blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia