Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe spp (Crassulaceae)
Also called Mother-In-Law-Plant, Devils Backbone, Chandelier Plant, Mother of Millions.
Cats and dogs
Toxic to cats and dogs
What makes it toxic: Bufodienolides.
Signs to watch for: Vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm (rare).
Source: ASPCA entry "Kalanchoe", checked October 3, 2026.
Light
- Low light 3+ mol
- Medium light 6+ mol
- Bright indirect 10+ mol Best
- Direct sun 12+ mol
Kalanchoe needs a bright indoor spot. NC State prefers bright, indirect light with shade from long afternoon sun, while Clemson says it grows best in full sun in a sunny window. It gets leggy in low light.
Direct sun: a little gentle morning sun is fine.
On our scale it grows well from about 10 mol/m²/day and holds on down to roughly 2.2 (how these numbers are set).
Care
Care level: Easy. Water: Let the soil dry between waterings, but not until the plant wilts, and never let it sit in water.
It is a short-day plant; reblooming needs about six weeks of long, uninterrupted nights.
Pet-safe plants for similar light
- Areca palm bright indirect light
- Gloxinia bright indirect light
- Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis) bright indirect light
- African violet bright indirect light
- Aluminum plant (Pilea cadierei) bright indirect light
- Baby rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) bright indirect light
Sources
- Toxicity: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, "Kalanchoe"
- Light and care: NC State Extension, "Kalanchoe blossfeldiana (Florist Kalanchoe)"
- Light and care: Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC, "Kalanchoe"
- Light and care: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, "How do I care for Kalanchoe?"