Cathedral bells (Kalanchoe pinnata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Cathedral bells on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Crassulaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Cathedral bells
Kalanchoe pinnata, also known as Mori Tautau or Pa'apa'a'ina, is a perennial succulent native to Madagascar, characterized by its fleshy, oval leaves that produce small plantlets along their margins. Its upright growth habit and pendulous inflorescences of greenish or reddish flowers make it ideal for rock gardens, pots, and as an indoor plant in temperate climates. It's a fascinating plant to observe the process of asexual reproduction.
Native range
Tropical Africa and Madagascar
Care tips
It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, especially in summer. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot, typical for succulents. Use a well-draining substrate, specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. A common mistake is overwatering, which can be fatal for this drought-tolerant plant.
How to save a dying Cathedral bells
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing leaves or dark spots. Mushy, watery stem. Excessive leaf drop. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Remove affected leaves and stems. Check roots, remove rotten ones. Repot in dry, well-draining substrate. Water only when substrate is completely dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest enemy. Also lack of light or very low, frosty temperatures.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. With good drainage, light, and moderate watering, it often recovers. Even a leaf piece can grow a new plant.