Kalanchoe Pinatum

Kalanchoe Pinatum (Kalanchoe pinnata) is a fascinating succulent with fleshy, scalloped leaves that can develop lovely pink, red or purple colouring around the edges when she gets plenty of light. As she matures, her leaves can become more divided, giving her a very different look from the young plants. Originally from Madagascar, she’s a sun-loving plant that prefers to dry out properly between waterings.

☀️ Light
Give her plenty of bright light. A sunny windowsill is ideal, and she can enjoy several hours of direct sunshine each day. Stronger light can help bring out the pink and reddish tones around the edges of her leaves. If moving her into a very sunny spot, introduce her gradually to avoid leaf scorch.

💧 Watering
Let the compost dry out completely between waterings. When it is dry, give her a thorough drink and allow all excess water to drain away. She stores moisture in her fleshy leaves, so she is much happier being a little too dry than sitting in wet compost. During autumn and winter, reduce watering further as growth slows.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
She enjoys warm conditions, ideally around 18-25°C, and doesn't need high humidity. Average household humidity is absolutely fine. Keep her away from cold draughts and protect her from frost and temperatures below about 10°C.

🪴 Potting
Use a free-draining cactus and succulent compost. Adding extra perlite, grit or pumice will improve drainage. A pot with drainage holes is essential, as wet compost around her roots can quickly lead to root rot.

✂️ Pruning
Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed. If she becomes tall or leggy, you can trim the stems back during the growing season to encourage branching and a bushier shape.

🌿 Growing Tips
Bright light and careful watering are the two big things to get right. Don't worry if the colouring changes throughout the year. Her leaves can become more colourful in brighter conditions. Mature plants can also produce plantlets along the edges of their leaves, which can root and grow into new plants.

🐾 Not Pet Friendly
Kalanchoe species are toxic to cats and dogs if eaten, so keep her away from curious pets.

Size: 12cm nursery pot