Identifying and Caring for Kalanchoe (Flaming Katy)

The flowering plant in your mixed pot is a Kalanchoe (pronounced kal-un-KOH-ee), a popular succulent from Madagascar. Here's how to keep it blooming and healthy.

Quick ID

• Clusters of small, vibrant flowers (orange, red, pink, white) lasting months.
• Fleshy, scalloped leaves that store water.
• Compact size: typically 2–4 inches tall and wide.

Care Essentials

Soil & Pot

Use a well-draining mix: half peat, half perlite or sand. Pot must have drainage holes. Add a layer of pebbles at the bottom.

Watering

Water weekly while blooming, but let soil dry completely between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot. Succulents hate "wet feet."

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid hot, direct summer sun (leaves show "sunburn" as bleached patches).

Feeding

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during flowering.

Repotting

A 4-inch pot suits a single plant; a 6-inch pot can hold 2–3. Repot only when root-bound.

With this care, your Kalanchoe will reward you with months of cheerful color.