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Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent flowering plants in the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent flowering plants in the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae. It includes about 120 to 174 accepted species, depending on the source, and is best known for popular houseplants such as *Kalanchoe blossfeldiana*. Most species are native to Madagascar and tropical Africa, and many are grown for their fleshy leaves and long-lasting flowers.

Taxonomy

Kalanchoe is a genus in the family Crassulaceae. It is part of the succulent plant group, which includes species adapted to storing water in leaves and stems.

Distribution and habitat

Most kalanchoe species are native to Madagascar and tropical Africa. Some sources also report species from Asia, reflecting the genus’s broader Old World distribution.

Cultivation

Several kalanchoe species are widely grown as houseplants because they tolerate indoor conditions well. They typically prefer strong light and infrequent watering once the soil has dried.

Notable species

*Kalanchoe blossfeldiana* is the best-known ornamental species and is commonly sold as a flowering potted plant. It is valued for clusters of red, pink, orange, yellow, or white flowers.

Key facts

  • Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent plants in the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae.
  • Sources place the number of species at roughly 120 to 174.
  • Most species are native to Madagascar and tropical Africa.
  • The genus includes popular indoor ornamentals, especially *Kalanchoe blossfeldiana*.
  • Kalanchoes are known for thick, fleshy leaves and clusters of colorful, long-lasting flowers.
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Canadian context

Kalanchoe is commonly grown in Canada as an indoor ornamental plant, especially in winter when flowering potted plants are popular for homes and offices.

Frequently asked questions

What is kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae, including many ornamental species grown as houseplants.
Where do kalanchoe plants come from?
Most species are native to Madagascar and tropical Africa, with some sources also noting Asian species.
How many species of kalanchoe are there?
The reported number varies by source, but is generally given as about 120 to 174 accepted species.
Why are kalanchoes popular as houseplants?
They are compact, easy to maintain, and produce colorful, long-lasting flower clusters.
How are kalanchoe plants propagated?
They are readily propagated from leaf or stem cuttings.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/kalanchoe
    Supports: Genus description, family, approximate species count, native range, and cultivation notes
  2. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/kalanchoe/
    Supports: Genus classification, species count, native range, and ornamental use
  3. Clemson Home & Garden Information Center — https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/kalanchoe/
    Supports: Houseplant use, floral characteristics, Madagascar origin of *Kalanchoe blossfeldiana*
  4. Missouri Botanical Garden — https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279373
    Supports: Description of *Kalanchoe blossfeldiana* as a succulent perennial with scallop-edged leaves and clustered flowers