Kalanchoe laxiflora is from the Crassulaceae family of plants. They also call it the Chandelier Plant or Mother of Thousands. A succulent plant species native to Madagascar, It is appreciated for its attractive, cascading clusters of tubular orange-red flowers and its ability to produce numerous plantlets along the edges of its leaves. John Gilbert Baker (1834-1920) first published Kalanchoe laxiflora in 1886. He was an English botanist. They also call it Milky Widow’s Thrill. It is a perennial subshrub. It is succulent.
Kalanchoe laxiflora can grow to 20 in (50 cm) tall. The leaves are green and have a red margin, and are elliptical. The margins on the leaves turn reddish-purple as they age. Kalanchoe laxiflora grows bell-shaped flowers, and they are orange or peach and appear on tall stems. They require short winter light to encourage flowering. Temperatures around 60ºF or 16ºC during the day should be maintained. It can drop a bit colder down to 45ºF or 7ºC at night. This is ideal to encourage flowering.
How to grow Kalanchoe laxiflora:
Sunlight: Kalanchoe laxiflora thrives in bright sunlight. It prefers full sun conditions, but in very hot climates, providing partial shade during the hottest part of the day can help protect the plant from excessive heat and sunburn. Indoors, place it near a sunny window to ensure it receives adequate light.
Soil: Plant Kalanchoe laxiflora in well-drained soil. A cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable for this plant. Ensure that the soil allows water to flow freely and doesn’t hold excess moisture, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Watering: Kalanchoe laxiflora is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and then water deeply, ensuring that excess water drains out of the pot. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering rather than overwatering.
Pest and Disease Control: Kalanchoe laxiflora is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor the plant for common succulent pests such as mealybugs or aphids. If you notice any pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Propagation :
Cuttings: Kalanchoe laxiflora can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Select healthy, mature stems and cut them into sections of about 3-4 inches long. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days to form calluses. Then, plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and lightly water them. Place the cuttings in a warm, bright location, avoiding direct sunlight. Rooting typically occurs within two to three weeks.
It’s important to note that Kalanchoe laxiflora is known for its ability to produce numerous plantlets along the leaf margins, which eventually drop and can root themselves. These plantlets can be gently removed and planted individually to propagate new plants.
By following these care guidelines and propagation methods, you can successfully cultivate and propagate Kalanchoe laxiflora, enjoying its vibrant flowers and cascading growth habit in your garden or indoor space.
Also, read about Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ‘Hot Pink’.
