Flaming Katy
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana
A cheerful flowering succulent that produces dense clusters of small, vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, or white above thick, glossy green leaves. This Madagascar native blooms for weeks at a time and is often sold as a gift plant during holidays due to its long-lasting, colorful display. With proper care, it can be encouraged to rebloom year after year, making it a rewarding houseplant for bright indoor locations.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Bright indirect light
Zones
10–12
USDA hardiness
Height
6-18 inches
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Height: 0 ft. 6 in. - 1 ft. 6 in.. Spread: 0 ft. 6 in. - 1 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: Less than 12 inches. Growth rate: Slow. Maintenance: 'Flaming Katy'bright red flowers Kalanchoe blossfeldiana f. variegatadark green leaves with pink and creamy margins, red or orange flowers in the spring or summer 'Kerinci'clusters of pink flowers 'Lanin'up to 12 inches tall, dark green leaves, clusters of bright orange flowers 'Queen Jodie'up to 12 inches tall, double, rose-like, salmon pink colored flowers 'Queen Lindsay'up to 12 inches tall, golden yellow double flowers 'Simone'up to 12 inches tall, clusters of pure white flowers, 'Flaming Katy', Kalanchoe blossfeldiana f. variegata, 'Kerinci', 'Lanin', 'Queen Jodie', 'Queen Lindsay', 'Simone'. Propagation: Stem Cutting.
Harvesting
The fruit is inconspicuous.
Bloom time: Spring, Winter
Edibility: Toxic if an part of the plant is ingested.
History & Origin
Origin: Northeast Madagascar
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Salt
- +Attracts: Attractive Flowers, Colorful, Easy to Grow
- +Wildlife value: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
- +Edible: Toxic if an part of the plant is ingested.
- +Low maintenance
Considerations
- -Toxic (Flowers, Leaves, Stems): Medium severity
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Jade Plant
Similar water and light requirements, compatible growth habits
Echeveria
Matching drought tolerance and full sun preferences
Sedum
Shared preference for well-draining soil and minimal watering
Aloe Vera
Similar succulent care needs and complementary foliage textures
String of Pearls
Compatible water requirements and creates attractive cascading contrast
Hens and Chicks
Both thrive in poor, well-draining soil with minimal care
Lavender
Drought-tolerant with similar sun exposure needs, repels pests
Rosemary
Shares preference for dry conditions and provides natural pest deterrent
Keep Apart
Mint
Requires frequent watering which can cause root rot in succulents
Ferns
Need high humidity and frequent watering, incompatible with succulent care
Impatiens
Require consistent moisture and shade, opposite of succulent needs
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Good resistance with proper watering
Common Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, scale insects
Diseases
Root rot, powdery mildew in humid conditions, leaf spot