Kalanchoe carnea
big-leaf kalanchoe
Lush green succulent has scalloped leaves and pale pink flowers in summer. Creates wandering colonies, rooting where it lands. Prefers ample water, especially in sun, but tolerates drought.
 Height | 2–3ft |
|---|---|
 Width | 3–5ft |
 Tolerates | Coast, Cool Summers, Drought, Deer, Heat, Pots, Neglect, Wind |
 Water needs | Low – Moderate |
This is an interesting succulent that is drought tolerant (we've seen it surviving under fog drip not far from the coast), but will need some summer water every couple weeks if it's in a hot sunny spot. During winter rains in thrives without any additional water. If you'd like to put it in a garden that gets ample summer water this is where it thrives, being from a summer growing area of the world. With summer heat and regular water this plant has explosive, lush growth. | |
 Hardy to | 26°F |
 Exposure | Full Shade – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Flowering, Foliage Feature, Spreading, Succulent, Tropical, Trunking |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose, Low Needs |
 Origin | NE India |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 16, 17, 19–24, H1, H2 |
Growing Notes
Very very easy to grow from cuttings. We have seen a garden where these are cut and tossed down the hill, rooting where they land and creating a new colony.
Special Interest
As an especially lush succulent we love seeing this plant in tropical garden designs where you can fill up a thrifty water wise garden. The pink flowers are a plus too!
The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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