Kalanchoe pinnata, also known as the air plant, cathedral bells, Mexican love plant, and miracle leaf, is a succulent plant native to Madagascar. With its vibrant green leaves and bell-shaped flowers, it makes an attractive houseplant or outdoor plant in warm climates. Growing and caring for Kalanchoe pinnata is relatively easy, making it a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Introduction to Kalanchoe Pinnata
Kalanchoe pinnata is a species of flowering succulent that is very popular as a houseplant. It is native to Madagascar but grows well indoors with minimal care. Some key facts about Kalanchoe pinnata:
- Common Names: Air plant, Cathedral bells, Mexican love plant, Miracle leaf
- Botanical Name: Kalanchoe pinnata
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Mature Size: Up to 3 feet tall
- Flowers: Bell-shaped, in clusters
- Leaf Color: Dark green
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light
- Watering Needs: Allow soil to dry between waterings
- Propagation: Leaf cuttings
- Hardiness Zone: 10-12 (not frost-hardy)
With its attractive foliage and unique flowering habit, Kalanchoe pinnata adds visual interest to indoor spaces and outdoor gardens in warm climates. Its versatility and ease of care make it a great plant for beginners.
How to Grow Kalanchoe Pinnata
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe pinnata thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east, west, or south-facing window where it will get plenty of sunlight without being exposed to prolonged direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. The leaves will turn reddish in color if the plant gets more than a few hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix for cacti and succulents. You can make your own by mixing equal parts of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. The soil should be loose and gritty to prevent root rot. Add a 2-3 inch layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.
Watering
Kalanchoe pinnata is drought tolerant like most succulents, so it’s better to underwater than overwater it. Wait for the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The leaves will start to look limp and wrinkled when the plant needs water. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom drainage holes, then allow the excess water to drain out. This ensures the soil is soaked but not soggy.
Temperature & Humidity
Kalanchoe pinnata thrives in average room temperatures between 65-80°F. Keep it away from cold drafts. As a succulent, it prefers low humidity.
Fertilizer
Fertilize monthly in the spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Potting & Repotting
Kalanchoe pinnata should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring. Move it to a container that is 2 inches larger to allow room for growth. Add fresh potting mix and replenish the bottom gravel layer. Repotting annually can lead to overfertilization and root damage.
Propagation
Kalanchoe pinnata is very easy to propagate. Just take a healthy leaf and let it dry out for 1-2 days. Place the leaf on well-draining soil. Roots and new plants will sprout where the leaf meets the soil. Leaves can also be placed in a small jar of water to root. Once rooted, plant the new starts in soil.
Caring for Kalanchoe Pinnata
Pruning
Prune off any dead, damaged, or unsightly growth as needed to maintain an attractive appearance. Pruning encourages bushier growth. Avoid pruning in fall and winter.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Brown leaf tips – Caused by under or overwatering. Adjust watering frequency.
- Wrinkled, limp leaves – Needs more water. Water thoroughly.
- Reddish leaves – Getting too much direct sun. Provide bright, indirect light instead.
- Leaf drop – Can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or temperature stress.
- Spider mites – Treat infestations by spraying plant with water to wash away mites. Use insecticidal soap if needed.
Dormancy Period
Kalanchoe pinnata goes dormant in winter. Reduce watering from fall through winter while plant is dormant. Avoid fertilizing until spring. Leaf drop and slower growth are normal during this period.
Toxicity
Kalanchoe pinnata is toxic to pets and people if ingested. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Seek medical care if plant parts are ingested.
Tips for Growing Kalanchoe Pinnata
- Provide plenty of light for best growth and flowering.
- Allow soil to dry between waterings and water thoroughly.
- Use gravel in the pot to improve drainage.
- Repot every 2-3 years in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Fertilize monthly only during active growth periods.
- Propagate new plants from leaf cuttings.
- Prune off dead or damaged growth as needed.
- Keep away from pets as the plant is toxic if eaten.
- Reduce water and stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Uses for Kalanchoe Pinnata
In addition to being an attractive houseplant, Kalanchoe pinnata has several uses:
- Provides an attractive pop of color and visual interest on desks, tables, windowsills, and other indoor spaces.
- Works well in outdoor succulent gardens and mixed planters in warm climates.
- The leaves have traditionally been used in herbal medicine, though their efficacy has not been definitively proven.
- NASA studies found it can help purify indoor air by removing toxins.
- The bell-shaped flowers can be cut and floated in bowls of water for simple, long-lasting arrangements.
FAQs about Growing Kalanchoe Pinnata
What are the signs that a Kalanchoe pinnata needs more water?
Look for limp, wrinkled leaves and softened stems as indications your Kalanchoe pinnata needs water. The leaves will appear deflated when the plant gets thirsty.
How much sunlight does a Kalanchoe pinnata need?
Kalanchoe pinnata thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near an east or west facing window. Avoid more than a few hours of direct sun per day, which can burn the leaves.
Why are the leaves on my Kalanchoe pinnata turning red?
Reddish leaves are usually a sign your Kalanchoe pinnata is getting too much direct sunlight. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light instead.
What temperature is best for Kalanchoe pinnata?
Normal indoor temperatures between 65-80°F are ideal for Kalanchoe pinnata. Keep it away from cold windows and drafts.
How often should I fertilize my Kalanchoe pinnata?
Fertilize monthly during the active growing season in spring and summer. Stop fertilizing when growth slows in fall and winter.
When should I repot a Kalanchoe pinnata?
Repot Kalanchoe pinnata every 2-3 years in the spring. Move it to a container that is 2 inches larger than its current pot.
How can I propagate new Kalanchoe pinnata plants?
Propagate easily from leaf cuttings. Simply remove a leaf and allow it to dry for 1-2 days before planting it in soil. New plants will sprout at the base.
Is Kalanchoe pinnata toxic?
Yes, Kalanchoe pinnata contains toxins that can cause illness if ingested. Keep the plant away from children and pets to avoid accidental poisoning. Seek medical care if poisoning occurs.
Conclusion
With its vibrant green foliage, unique bell-shaped blooms, and sculptural form, Kalanchoe pinnata makes a great addition to desks, tabletops, and more. Despite its tropical origins, it actually thrives as an indoor plant with minimal care required. Provide it with bright, indirect sunlight, allow the soil to dry between waterings, and offer monthly fertilizer during the growing season. Repot every few years to refresh the soil. Propagate new plants from leaf cuttings. Monitor for pests like spider mites and treat promptly if found. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot. With the right care, Kalanchoe pinnata will provide years of enjoyment as a low-maintenance succulent houseplant.