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Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' is a stunning succulent known for its vibrant pink plantlets that resemble fluttering butterflies along the edges of its leaves. A hybrid of Kalanchoe delagoensis and Kalanchoe daigremontiana, this eye-catching variety thrives with proper care and adds a unique pop of color to any plant collection. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to keep your 'Pink Butterflies' healthy and thriving.
Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' loves plenty of sunlight and thrives best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun. Placing it near a sunny window that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day, such as a south or west-facing window, is ideal. If you notice the leaves losing their pink hue, it might be a sign that the plant needs more light. In that case, move it to a brighter spot or consider supplementing with a grow light.
Like most succulents, Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' prefers to dry out between waterings. Water the plant thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Be careful to avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can quickly lead to root rot. During the winter months, when the plant’s growth naturally slows, reduce watering frequency to prevent excess moisture from building up.
Well-draining soil is essential to keep this plant healthy and prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix works perfectly, but you can also create your own blend by combining regular potting soil with sand and perlite for added drainage. Make sure to use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape easily.
Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' thrives in warm, dry conditions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It’s important to protect the plant from frost, as temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can cause damage. Average household humidity levels are sufficient for this succulent, and it doesn’t require misting to stay healthy.
Feeding your Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' during its active growing season, which spans from spring to summer, encourages healthy growth. A balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer applied once a month is sufficient. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can result in weak, leggy growth that detracts from the plant’s charm.
While most kalanchoes are relatively easy to propagate, 'Pink Butterflies' is a bit unique. The pink plantlets that grow along its leaves are non-viable and won’t root like other kalanchoe varieties. Instead, propagation is best done through stem cuttings. To propagate, take a healthy stem cutting and allow it to callous over for 24-48 hours. Once the cut end has dried, plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots establish.
If you notice the leaves turning brown or becoming mushy, this is often a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out completely and ensure the pot has proper drainage before watering again. Leggy growth usually indicates the plant isn’t receiving enough sunlight, so move it to a brighter spot to encourage compact, healthy growth. If the plantlets fall off, don’t worry — this is a normal part of the plant's maturing process. Simply clean up the fallen pieces to keep your plant looking tidy.
Unfortunately, Kalanchoe 'Pink Butterflies' is toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and other health issues in cats, dogs, and other animals. It’s best to keep this beautiful succulent out of reach of curious pets to ensure their safety.