Kalanchoe is a succulent plant that provides gardeners with a flowering potted plant that requires very little maintenance in the home or office. They can be forced into flower any time of the year, which makes them available for sale just about all year. Kalanchoes are quite often placed in dish gardens as the blooming plant because of their long blooming period. After it blooms, the succulent waxy green leaves are attractive as well.

The kalanchoe grows 8 to 12 inches tall with masses of small four-petaled leaves that are red, orange, coral, gold, yellow and purple, and white. They have thick, waxy leaves with a succulent appearance. You should water the plants when the soil feels dry to the touch and drain excess water from tray. Plants can withstand periods of dry soil. The flower color can be maintained with bright, indirect sunlight daily for at least four hours. Removing dead leaves and spent blossoms will prolong the life of the plant. The blooming period usually lasts four to eight weeks.