Kalanchoes are succulent plants often grown for their tiny, colourful flowers. The best known are Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, also known as flaming Katy, panda plant or widow's thrill. They are popular house plants grown for their brightly coloured flowers in shades of red, magenta, yellow, orange and white.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana are named after Robert Blossfeld, who discovered the plant in its native Madagascar. In their native habitat they grow in arid areas, so don't need much watering. They are very low maintenance and flower for around eight weeks. The plants are widely available round in supermarkets, garden centres and florists and are often given as gifts. Once they have flowered, many people discard them. They can be encouraged to flower again, however, with a little effort.
Calandiva® have long-lasting, slightly larger double flowers and are also widely available. They were bred from Kalanchoe blossfeldiana.