Flaming Katy - Care Sheet
Overview
The Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a cheerful, low-maintenance succulent from Madagascar, prized for its vivid clusters of flowers and glossy, evergreen leaves. It’s a favorite among both new and experienced plant parents for its resilience, compact size, and long-lasting blooms, which can brighten up any indoor space with colors ranging from red and orange to pink and white. With the right care, your Flaming Katy can grace your home with color year after year.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Kalanchoe blossfeldiana |
|---|---|
| Common name | Flaming Katy, Christmas Kalanchoe, Widow’s Thrill |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet-safe? | No (toxic to cats) |
| Light | Bright, indirect light; avoid intense midday sun |
| Water | Let soil dry between waterings; water sparingly |
| Humidity | Average indoor humidity; no special requirements |
| Temperature | 18–24°C / 65–75°F (day); 10–15°C / 50–60°F (night) |
| Soil | Well-draining, sandy succulent mix |
| Fertilizer | Balanced, water-soluble; every 4–6 weeks in growing season |
| Repotting | Every 2–3 years or when rootbound |
| Propagation | Leaf or stem cuttings; seeds possible but less common |
Light
Flaming Katy thrives in bright, indirect light. A spot near an east- or west-facing window is ideal. While it enjoys plenty of light, direct midday sun can scorch its leaves, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. If you want to encourage blooming, remember that Flaming Katy is a “short-day” plant: it needs long nights (about 14 hours of darkness) for 6 weeks to trigger flowering. You can simulate this by covering the plant or moving it to a dark closet each evening.
Water
As a succulent, Flaming Katy is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry, then allow excess water to drain away. Overwatering is a common cause of problems, so err on the side of underwatering. In winter, reduce watering frequency, especially if the plant is in a cooler spot.
Humidity
Average indoor humidity is perfectly fine for Flaming Katy. It does not require misting or a humidifier, making it an easy choice for most homes.
Temperature
Keep your Flaming Katy in a warm environment—ideally between 18–24°C (65–75°F) during the day and slightly cooler at night (10–15°C / 50–60°F). Avoid placing it near drafts, air conditioning vents, or cold windows, as sudden temperature drops can stress the plant.
Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, sandy succulent or cactus mix to prevent root rot. A pot with drainage holes is essential. If your mix retains too much moisture, add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Repot every 2–3 years, or when the plant becomes rootbound, using fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Feeding
Feed your Flaming Katy with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize in winter when the plant is resting. Over-fertilizing can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Repotting
Repot every 2–3 years, or when roots start to circle the pot. Choose a container only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excess soil moisture. Spring is the best time for repotting, as the plant enters its active growth phase.
Propagation
Flaming Katy is easy to propagate from leaf or stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy leaf or stem, let it callus for a day or two, then place it on moist succulent soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop. You can also grow Flaming Katy from seed, though this method is less common for home growers.
Common Problems
Leggy Growth
If your plant becomes tall and sparse, it’s likely not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location and consider pruning to encourage bushier growth.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves often signal overwatering. Check the soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Ensure the pot has good drainage.
No Flowers
Flaming Katy needs long nights to bloom. If it’s not flowering, try the 6-week darkness treatment in autumn to encourage buds.
Pests
Mealybugs and aphids can occasionally bother Flaming Katy. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap if needed.
Root Rot
Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Always use well-draining soil and empty saucers after watering.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Flaming Katy is toxic to cats and can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. While it is generally considered safe for humans, it’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.
Seasonal Care
Flaming Katy naturally blooms in late winter to early spring, but with controlled light, you can encourage blooms at other times. In summer, the plant focuses on leaf and stem growth. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing in autumn and winter, especially if you’re trying to induce flowering. Protect from cold drafts and extreme temperature changes year-round.
Quick Tips
- Bright, indirect light is best—avoid harsh midday sun.
- Water sparingly and let soil dry out between waterings.
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize lightly in spring and summer for best blooms.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Control light exposure in autumn to trigger winter blooms.
- Keep away from pets, especially cats, as the plant is toxic.