Flaming Katy

kalanchoe pumila

Also known as: ["Flower Kalanchoe","Mangave"]

Family: Crassulaceae Genus: Kalanchoe Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A compact succulent with fleshy, scalloped leaves and clusters of bright pink or orange-red flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Saxifragales
Family: Crassulaceae
Genus: Kalanchoe
Botanical Name: Kalanchoe pumila

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, partially shaded spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Pet Owners (non Toxic Plants Only)
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun; reduce light exposure in intense summer afternoons.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows for optimal light; shield from harsh afternoon sun outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

bright, indirect light or partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, sandy potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix every 2–3 years.

Temperature

Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers mild temperatures; reduce watering in cooler months.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective for Kalanchoe pumila.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Let it callus for 1–2 days.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep lightly moist until rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) for optimal rooting.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth; best done after flowering or in spring.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; cut just above a node; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the soil and avoid wetting leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; allow soil to dry completely between waterings in dormant periods.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop or wilting in cold; yellowing or stunted growth in excessive heat; slowed growth in temperature extremes.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; protect from drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch; wilting despite soil moisture; reduced flowering; increased water demand.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Kalanchoe pumila can indicate various issues, including nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which may affect the plant's overall health and vigor.

Wilting in Kalanchoe pumila is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, which can lead to root damage and reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

Leaf spots on Kalanchoe pumila may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in unsightly damage and potentially reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize effectively.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Kalanchoe pumila due to excessive moisture or poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe pumila, which can lead to severe cardiac and respiratory issues. Toxicity can occur even with small ingestions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy difficulty breathing tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure plants are inaccessible to cats. Seek emergency veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe pumila can cause severe cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory distress, and other systemic effects in dogs. Even small amounts can be harmful.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea weakness difficulty breathing collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from pets. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Kalanchoe pumila contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function when ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally mild in humans but can be more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain irregular heartbeat
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Kalanchoe pumila toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe pumila?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Q: Does Kalanchoe pumila flower indoors?

A: Yes, it can bloom indoors with adequate light and proper care.

Quick Reference
Family: Crassulaceae
Care: easy
Light: bright, indirect light or part
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","pet owners (non-toxic plants only)"]
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