Flower Bio: Calandiva® (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
Botanical Family: Crassulaceae (Stonecrop Family)
Related to: jade, broadleaf stonecrop, hens and chicks
Born in: Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is native to the cool plateaus of the Tsaratanana Mountains, on the north end of the island of Madagascar.
Bred by: The wild plant selection was first described by a botanist in the early 1900s, and then it was introduced by a German seed trader as a houseplant in 1932. American, German, Danish, and Dutch plant breeders improved upon this colorful character’s favorable features during the next 5 decades.
All-Star Varieties: There are over 25 varieties of Calandiva® available.
(‘Jamaica’-yellow, ‘Vega’-orange, ‘Weaver’-pink & white)
Fun Fact: Calandiva® was first sold on the market in 2002. In general, Kalanchoes are appreciated for their long bloom time, at least 6 weeks, and because they require relatively minimal care. Calandiva® is particularly striking because each flower has dozens of petals, instead of the typical 4.
