Spännande nyheter i Kalanchoë-sortimentet

Overview of Kalanchoë blossfeldiana (Våreld, Höstglöd)

Kalanchoë blossfeldiana, commonly referred to as "höstglöd" or "våreld," is renowned as one of Europe’s most beloved flowering houseplants. Its enduring popularity is rooted in its remarkable resilience and consistent ability to bloom for at least six weeks, delivering vibrant color and extended enjoyment in homes and offices.

Description and Appearance

Growth Habit

This evergreen, bushy perennial succulent typically attains a height of 30–45 cm and a spread of 10–50 cm. It maintains a compact, tidy growth habit, perfect for pots and indoor settings.

Foliage

The foliage consists of glossy, deep-green, oval leaves with gently scalloped edges. As a true succulent, its leaves are fleshy and thick, enabling the plant to store water and endure drier conditions akin to those in its native African range.

Blossoms

Kalanchoë blossfeldiana is celebrated for its dense clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, often blooming for six weeks or longer. Modern breeding efforts have expanded the available palette to nearly every color except blue—encompassing vivid reds, oranges, pinks, golds, whites, deep bordeaux, and lavenders. Some varieties also feature divided or multi-lobed petals, lending greater visual interest.

Modern Varieties: Calandiva®

The emergence of Calandiva® cultivars has revived the Kalanchoë family with new forms and colors. The hallmark of Calandiva® types is their plush, double or filled blooms reminiscent of tiny roses, enhancing the plant’s ornamental value. Even unopened buds are decorative, and remain as attractive as the full blooms.

These new varieties introduce a spectrum of shades such as orange, purple, pink, white, and pink-and-white bicolors. Breeding is ongoing, with additional colors like red and salmon expected to expand the collection.

Cultivation and Care

Kalanchoë’s ease of care makes it accessible for both beginners and avid indoor gardeners.

Light

For abundant flowers, place plants in a well-lit spot indoors with plenty of direct sunlight. Although they handle partial shade, intense and prolonged blooming is best achieved under strong light.

Watering

As succulents, Kalanchoës should be watered moderately—only when the soil has mostly dried out. They are notably drought-tolerant, a trait stemming from their water-retaining leaf tissue, and can survive extended dry spells.

Soil and Feeding

Nursery-grown plants come in nutritious substrates, eliminating the need for immediate feeding. If desired, additional fertilizer can be offered sparingly during the active growth period.

Temperature

Protect plants from cold: for best health, temperatures should remain above 10°C. As they are not frost-hardy, shelter or indoor environments are essential whenever temperatures dip.

Flower Maintenance

Deadhead faded blooms promptly to help extend the flowering period and stimulate the plant to produce new buds.

Flowering and Photoperiod

Kalanchoë blossfeldiana is a classic short-day plant, requiring approximately 10 hours or less of daylight over several weeks to induce budding. As a result, it flowers naturally from late autumn through winter. Indoor growers who wish to manipulate or prolong the blooming period may adjust light exposure accordingly.

Uses and Precautions

Decorative Uses

This species excels as a potted focal point for windowsills, tabletops, conservatories, or even as a terrace accent during warmer months.

Pet and Child Caution

Despite its beauty, parts of the plant are toxic if consumed. Households with small children or pets should keep the plant out of reach.

Summary

Kalanchoë blossfeldiana, or höstglöd, distinguishes itself with its spectacular bloom colors, lengthy flowering, and effortless care requirements. Recent breeding, notably the flourishing Calandiva® group, further augments its attractiveness and diversity. Highly adaptable to bright conditions and tolerant of infrequent watering, this plant holds a cherished place as a low-maintenance, color-rich companion for brightening homes throughout the dimmer months of the year.