Air Plant / Lifeplant (Kalanchoe pinnata): Miraculous Leaf Propagation

Kalanchoe pinnata, known by many names including Air Plant, Lifeplant, Cathedral Bells, and Mother-in-Law Plant, is a succulent perennial from the Crassulaceae family. Its claim to fame: plantlets form along the leaf margins, dropping to root easily—hence "air plant."

Growing 3 to 6 feet tall, it produces pendulous, greenish-yellow tubular flowers in winter. The fleshy, scalloped leaves are green with reddish edges. It thrives in bright light, well-drained soil, and minimal water. A fascinating, easy-to-share plant with a long history of medicinal use. Numerous synonyms exist, including Bryophyllum pinnatum.

Taxonomic Details