Cacti & Succulents

​Growing and Nurturing Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ Plants

Posted on by JAMES

Dive into the realm of unique succulents with the mesmerizing Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’! Discover crucial insights and expert tips from horticultural pro Melissa Strauss on cultivating and caring for these exquisite plants.

Unveil the charm of Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ – a rapid-growing, vividly colorful succulent delight. Its vibrant apple-green foliage with striking red edges is captivating, growing in compact clusters with unwavering vigor.

Despite their arresting beauty, caring for these plants is surprisingly undemanding. They flourish effortlessly with minimal attention, thriving in a variety of indoor environments when provided with the appropriate care.

Reaching a modest height of a mere 6 inches, Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ graces windowsills and tabletops splendidly. With optimal conditions, this hybrid gem is sure to secure a special place among your cherished plant collection. Read ahead for guidance on planting, nurturing, and tending to these captivating succulents.

Insights into Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ Plants

Plant Type
Succulent

Season
Winter and Spring

Family
Crassulaceae

Genus
Kalanchoe

Hardiness Zones
8-10 (Houseplants elsewhere)

Exposure
Full Sun

Watering Needs
Low

Plant Spacing

Height
4-6 inches
Maintenance
Low
Planting Depth
Surface Level
Soil Type
Well-Draining, Sandy
Native Area
Madagascar
Plant With
Succulents
Diseases
Fungal Root Rot, Powdery Mildew
Attracts
Hummingbirds, Bees, Butterflies
Pests
Scale, Mealybugs, Spider Mites
Foliage Color
Red and Green

About Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’

Close up of succulent with rounded leaves that are slightly curved growing in a rosette pattern. Clumps of the succulent surround the main one. Leaves are Apple green in color with red margins. The outer leaves have more red than green. Small water droplets are on all of the leaves. The background is natural and blurry.
Close up of succulent with rounded leaves that are slightly curved growing in a rosette pattern. Clumps of the succulent surround the main one. Leaves are Apple green in color with red margins. The outer leaves have more red than green. Small water droplets are on all of the leaves. The background is natural and blurry.
This striking hybrid succulent is relatively recent in the plant world.
Photo by @magnificadesigns

Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ emerged as a novel kalanchoe cultivar from the cross-pollination between K. luciae and an undisclosed hybrid species, originating in California back in 2015.

With its proven ability to reproduce asexually over time, Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ has established itself as a durable and visually appealing cultivar.

Renowned for its vibrant apple green leaves adorned with vivid red margins, this kalanchoe swiftly multiplies through offsets from an early age, rapidly filling containers with its clumping effect, outpacing its parent plants.

While primarily native to Madagascar, kalanchoe plants have gained popularity as household plants, especially prized for their enduring, winter-blooming succulent flowers. These plants are lauded for their resilience and simple propagation, making them ideal for beginners in succulent gardening.

Classification

Close up of a small container garden. The container is round and red. Grass grows next to a garden wall in the blurry background. There are two Haworthia aloe succulents that have triangular deep green leaves with tiny raised white stripes that grow horizontally up the leaves. Yellow-green sedum growing in short vines with long thick leaves grow next to the haworthia. Another succulent with thick green leaves with pinkish tips grows in the center. The tallest and biggest succulent growing from the center of the container has rounded leaves that have a slight curve to them that are bright apple green in color with light red margins.
Close up of a small container garden. The container is round and red. Grass grows next to a garden wall in the blurry background. There are two Haworthia aloe succulents that have triangular deep green leaves with tiny raised white stripes that grow horizontally up the leaves. Yellow-green sedum growing in short vines with long thick leaves grow next to the haworthia. Another succulent with thick green leaves with pinkish tips grows in the center. The tallest and biggest succulent growing from the center of the container has rounded leaves that have a slight curve to them that are bright apple green in color with light red margins.
Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ makes a great option for a thriller piece in a succulent container garden.
Photo by @thesmashingsucculents

As a hybrid species of the Kalanchoe genus, Dragonfire stands out among the 250+ kalanchoe species and numerous hybrids due to its popularity for breeding and hybridization. It is classified as a single-variety hybrid and, as a perennial succulent, it can flourish for several years, blooming annually under optimal conditions, though indoor blooming is less common.

Leaf Formation

Close-up of succulent plant growing in a round terra-cotta pot. The plant grows against a white wall with shadows being cast onto it from the evening sun. The succulent grows in a rosette pattern with rounded apple green leaves with red margins that have a slight point at the tips. The outer leaves are longer and hang lower than the inner leaves that grow in a tighter formation.
Close-up of succulent plant growing in a round terra-cotta pot. The plant grows against a white wall with shadows being cast onto it from the evening sun. The succulent grows in a rosette pattern with rounded apple green leaves with red margins that have a slight point at the tips. The outer leaves are longer and hang lower than the inner leaves that grow in a tighter formation.
The vibrantly colored leaves of the Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ form a loose rosette.
Photo by @devoted.rosette

Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ is celebrated for its vividly colored leaves that are oblong and delicately tapered, arranged in a loose rosette fashion, radiating apple green at the core with striking red margins that intensify and expand under temperature stress.

While resembling the larger Flapjacks variety, Dragonfire distinguishes itself by reaching a modest height of around 6 inches at maturity, boasting pointed leaf tips instead of rounded ones, which adds to its appeal as a compact and manageable indoor plant.

Flowers

Close up of three tiny flowers. Each of the flowers has four petals that form the shape of a star with four tiny yellow stamen coming from the center. The stems are light green in color and meet toward a central stem. The background is very blurry with tall green plants growing against the s
Close up of three tiny flowers. Each of the flowers has four petals that form the shape of a star with four tiny yellow stamen coming from the center. The stems are light green in color and meet toward a central stem. The background is very blurry with tall green plants growing against the s
Dragonfire, akin to other kalanchoes, blossoms in specific conditions, usually outdoors, showcasing small, star-shaped white flowers with four delicate petals.

For the Dragonfire species, flowering is not its primary feature, but sporadic blooming does occur. Unlike some vibrant kalanchoe varieties, Dragonfire’s blooms are subtle. However, with ample light, these delicate and charming flowers do emerge.

The inflorescence of Dragonfire presents a cluster of green buds that gradually unfold into exquisite white blossoms with a star-like appearance. This blooming period from winter to spring adds a touch of warmth to any collection of houseplants, especially during colder months.

Distinctively, Dragonfire repeatedly blooms from the same plant, showcasing its durability and longevity even after flowering.

Propagation

Close up of several rounded thick petals with a slight point at the center. Each leaf is apple green in color with red margins. Some of the leaves have more red than green. The plant grows in a round white container. There are several succulents growing in the blurred background.
Close up of several rounded thick petals with a slight point at the center. Each leaf is apple green in color with red margins. Some of the leaves have more red than green. The plant grows in a round white container. There are several succulents growing in the blurred background.
Propagating this succulent is fairly easy and can be done through several methods.

Propagation of kalanchoes is notably trouble-free. In their natural habitats, they tend to spread rapidly, producing offsets abundantly and potentially overcrowding other plants. The three common propagation techniques for kalanchoes are through offsets, cuttings, and seeds.

From Offsets

Close up of small succulent plant growing in a round black plastic container. The soil is moist with reddish brown material in it. The succulent has rounded leaves that are bright green in color with red edges. Two larger leaves grow toward the outside of the plant that are mostly red.
Close up of small succulent plant growing in a round black plastic container. The succulent has rounded leaves that are bright green in color with red edges. Two larger leaves grow toward the outside of the plant that are mostly red.
Tiny offsets can be removed and placed into a new container to propagate the plant.

Offset propagation is the easiest method for kalanchoes. Dragonfire, in particular, generates offsets prolifically at an early stage. These offsets, if left unattended, can form a beautiful cluster of colorful rosettes. However, if unchecked, they might become invasive and spread to nearby planters.

Removing and repotting these offsets is straightforward – just cut them off from the parent plant and plant them in succulent potting mix.

From Cuttings

Gardener using both hands to press lightly on soil in a small round terra-cotta pot that has a new plant cutting in the center of it. The plant has rounded leaves that are dark green and slightly scalloped toward the edges.
Gardener using both hands to press lightly on soil in a small round terra-cotta pot that has a new plant cutting in the center of it.
Cuttings are an easy way to propagate most plants, including Kalanchoes of any variety.

Similar to offset propagation, Dragonfire can also be propagated through leaf cuttings. These cuttings don’t require water for propagation. Simply cut mature leaves from the base of the plant, let the end dry for one day, then plant it in moist potting mix.

Rooting hormone can expedite the rooting process, and a clear plastic bag can be used to maintain humidity around the cutting for successful propagation.

To ensure successful propagation, covering the cutting with plastic is an effective method. The plastic acts as a mini greenhouse, retaining moisture essential for root development. Within weeks, the cutting should start rooting.

Starting from Seeds

Flowering plant thriving near a dirt road. A central stem transitions from dark purple to light green, bearing rounded green leaves with slight scalloped edges. Lighter stems sprout clusters of white flowers.
Using seeds for propagation is a gradual process.

Growing Kalanchoe from seeds demands time but is straightforward. It’s best to sow the seeds in moist potting soil during spring. No need to bury the seeds; simply surface sow them in a container. Cover the container with a plastic bag and place it in a sunny location.

Seed germination typically occurs within 1-2 weeks. Seedlings should be ready for individual pots within two months. Winter planting is challenging due to limited daylight, making mid-spring ideal for starting your Kalanchoe seedlings.

Cultivating Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’

Close-up of container gardens against a wall. Succulents with variegated colors thrive.
These succulents grow rapidly and require minimal care.
Image credited to @thesmashingsucculents

Kalanchoe Dragonfires are low-maintenance succulents that prefer typical succulent care. They grow quickly and may require thinning to prevent overcrowding in the container, making them perfect space-fillers.

With a rapid reproduction rate, regular thinning is necessary to prevent them from taking over the container, ideal for those wanting to fill empty spaces.

Planting Depth and Potting Medium

Various terra-cotta pots displayed on a wooden surface. Pots filled with Kalanchoe plants.
Use pots with drainage holes for Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’.

Kalanchoes aren’t finicky about their potting requirements—opt for well-draining soil mixes with materials like peat moss and perlite. They fare well in a standard tropical potting mix with larger particles aiding drainage.

When potting seeds or plantlets, place them on the soil surface; no need to cover them. For mature plants, plant to the depth of the root ball. Repot every few years as Kalanchoes draw nutrients from the soil they are planted in.

Light Requirements

Four succulents growing in tight clusters in soil that has bits of wood on the surface. Each succulent has thick rounded leaves that curve and grow in a loose rosette formation. They are bright green with red edges. The sun shines brightly on the plants.
Four succulents growing in tight clusters in soil that has bits of wood on the surface. Each succulent has thick rounded leaves that curve and grow in a loose rosette formation. They are bright green with red edges. The sun shines brightly on the plants.
As with most other kalanchoes, Dragonfire needs lots of sunlight to thrive.

Dragonfire, like many kalanchoes, thrives in bright, filtered light. This succulent species can showcase its stress by changing color, with red edges appearing on the leaves when exposed to excessive sunlight or cooler temperatures.

This change in coloration indicates a positive response to stress rather than harm. Kalanchoes, including Dragonfire, tend to exhibit enhanced aesthetics when subjected to stresses like temperature fluctuations or intense sunlight exposure.

If you observe bleached leaves on your Dragonfire, it signifies excessive sun exposure. In such cases, consider relocating the plant to a shaded area or providing a light filter like a sheer curtain.

Water

Close up of a succulent plants wet with water droplets. The plant has bright apple-green leaves that are oblong with a slight point at the end, turning red. Leaves grow in rosette formations, with yellow-orange succulents at the base. The garden is adorned with large black rocks and bamboo fencing.
Close up of succulent plants covered in water droplets. Bright apple-green leaves form a rosette with red tips, next to yellow-orange succulents and black rocks in a garden.
Perform a finger test to ensure dry soil before watering your succulents.
Image courtesy of @thesmashingsucculents

Proper drainage in pots is essential to prevent overwatering Dragonfire and other kalanchoes. These succulents prefer dry roots and are prone to root rot if left in soggy soil. Adjust watering frequency to seasonal changes; less water during spring and fall, a slight increase during summer.

An individual Dragonfire plant requires about 6 ounces of water every 9-10 days in indirect sunlight. Increase watering to once a week if the plant receives ample sunlight. Outdoor kalanchoes may need additional water, so monitor the soil moisture levels to prevent waterlogging.

Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, ranging from 2 to 10 days depending on sunlight exposure.

Climate and Temperature

Close up of a small container garden with various succulents. The background is grayish-tan tiles. Succulents of different shades of green and sizes, with reddish margins, are featured.
Close up of various succulents in a container garden with grayish-tan tiles. Different green shades, with reddish margins, are visible.
Kalanchoes, being succulents, prefer mild temperatures and are not frost-tolerant.
Image courtesy of @thesmashingsucculents

Dragonfire kalanchoes thrive in indoor temperatures around 65°F, with outdoor tolerances down to 45°F. Temperatures below 45°F risk leaf damage, necessitating indoor protection.

These succulents cannot withstand frost and may die off in freezing conditions. However, they exhibit resilience and can regrow after frost exposure, highlighting their adaptability.

Kalanchoes can withstand lower humidity levels compared to other indoor plants. Although they survive at 40-50% humidity, an ideal range of 50-60% promotes healthy foliage. Excessive humidity may lead to issues like leaf spot and rot.

Fertilizing

To promote vigorous growth, fertilize your Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ with a standard fertilizer sparingly during its active growth period.

It is noteworthy that Kalanchoe plants, like the Dragonfire variety, have a remarkable ability to thrive without excessive fertilization. During periods of low growth activity, abstain from fertilizing altogether.

Optional feeding with a common fertilizer once a month is ideal during the plant’s growth phase, but remember, it is not a necessity for the plant’s well-being. Dragonfire can thrive beautifully without any additional fertilization.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune your Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ post-blooming or in spring to prevent overgrowth and enhance its appearance.

By trimming spent flowers and top leaves after flowering, you can curb Dragonfire’s tendency to become leggy, stimulating healthier growth. Pruning also enhances air circulation among its foliage, minimizing the risk of root rot and leaf decay.

Remove any withered or damaged leaves promptly as they can signify underlying issues that need attention. Regular inspections and maintenance will ensure the plant’s health and vitality.

Toxicity

Exercise caution with Kalanchoe ‘Dragonfire’ as it contains toxins harmful to pets and humans.

Remember that Kalanchoe plants, including Dragonfire, contain cardiac glycosides that pose health risks if ingested by people or animals. While rare, adverse effects are more probable in livestock during extreme conditions.

Pests and Diseases

Although resilient, Kalanchoe plants like the Dragonfire variety may occasionally encounter pest or disease issues.

While generally sturdy, Kalanchoes can still face challenges such as pest infestations, primarily through introducing infected plants. It is advisable to closely inspect new plants for signs of pests or diseases before introducing them into your indoor garden space.

Scale

Close up of a brown stem with green leaves growing from it. The stem and leaves have tiny bugs that look like they have a shell over them. The two bugs on the stem are whitish gray in color. The bugs on the green leaf are darker in color.
Close up of a brown stem with green leaves growing from it. The stem and leaves have tiny bugs that look like they have a shell over them. The two bugs on the stem are whitish gray in color. The bugs on the green leaf are darker in color.
Scale is a treatable pest if detected early.

Spotting minuscule brown insects on your plants may indicate a scale infestation. These pests feed on plant sap, particularly targeting new growth, leading to shriveled, dehydrated, pale plant parts.

Addressing scale infestations promptly is crucial due to their rapid reproduction and potential for significant damage. Look for clusters of scales under leaves as they tend to gather there.

Isolating infested plants is essential to prevent spreading. Treatment typically involves using neem or horticultural oils to suffocate the scales. Directly apply these oils to the affected leaves.

Mealybugs

Close up of a brown stem with bright green leaves growing from it. The brown stem has small white hairs growing along it. There is a white fuzzy bug crawling on the stem.
Close up of a brown stem with bright green leaves growing from it. The brown stem has small white hairs growing along it. There is a white fuzzy bug crawling on the stem.
Mealybugs, white and fuzzy, tend to gather in clumps.

Mealybugs, pale, fuzzy insects, thrive on your kalanchoes’ sap, leaving behind sticky honeydew that can lead to mold. To combat them, rinse with water or use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs for advanced infestations.

Prevention is key with mealybugs; inspect new plants for clustered bugs on stems and leaf junctures.

Spider Mites

Tiny red insect with eight long legs and a larger round central body crawling on a gray rock that has tiny yellow spores growing on it.
Tiny red insect with eight long legs and a larger round central body crawling on a gray rock that has tiny yellow spores growing on it.
Spider mites are microscopic pests commonly found on plants.

Spider mites resemble tiny dirt specks and lay eggs on plant leaves, causing fine webbing and leaf damage. To detect them, wipe leaves with a cloth after spraying water underneath.

Combat spider mites with miticides and regulate humidity to discourage their presence without creating additional plant problems.

Fungal Root Rot

Close up of roots that are rotting. The roots are light brown in color with many holes in them. It rests on a concrete surface that is blurry.
Close up of roots that are rotting. The roots are light brown in color with many holes in them. It rests on a concrete surface that is blurry.
Fungal root rot thrives in damp environments and can harm your plants.

Fungal root rot, also known as Black Rot, is a prevalent disease that causes root decay and growth stunting, potentially leading to plant demise if left untreated.

This issue worsens in cool, moist conditions, appearing as a black stem and leaf die-off. Proper watering practices and using benzimidazole fungicide can combat this disease.

If root infection is severe, disposal of the plant may be necessary to prevent spread.

Powdery Mildew

Close up of a green leaf with several veins that are light green. The leaf is covered in a white powdery substance.
Close up of a green leaf with several veins that are light green. The leaf is covered in a white powdery substance.
Proper watering methods should be used to avoid fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Mildew can harm succulents like Dragonfire, usually due to excessive humidity rather than over-watering. It isn’t a severe threat but can persist if conditions remain unchanged.

To prevent powdery mildew, place kalanchoes in well-lit rooms, avoiding high-humidity spaces like bathrooms. A lower humidity level is ideal for these plants.

Bacterial Soft Rot

Gardner wearing a navy blue short sleeve shirt and blue nail polish using both hands to hold a small square white plastic container with loose dry potting mix. The cactus that once grew in it is brown and mushy with small white spikes still visible in the mess.
Gardner wearing a navy blue short sleeve shirt and blue nail polish using both hands to hold a small square white plastic container with loose dry potting mix. The cactus that once grew in it is brown and mushy with small white spikes still visible in the mess.
Unfortunately, bacterial soft rot cannot be reversed.

Bacterial soft rot, while less severe than fungal rot, must be addressed promptly. The plant’s fleshy parts are the first to decay as the bacteria feast on them.

Infected sections should be removed immediately to prevent spread. Although this condition can’t be cured, it’s uncommon and not a major concern for most gardeners.

Final Thoughts

Dragonfire Kalanchoe is a resilient succulent that adds vibrancy to any collection. With minimal care requirements, this hardy plant resists pests and diseases, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Offering colorful foliage with just sunlight and bi-monthly watering, the Dragonfire Kalanchoe promises years of beauty and ease of care.

JAMES
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JAMES

James is an environmental gardener and passionate writer who holds a master's degree in agriculture. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in environmental horticulture and has a particular interest in soil composition. Currently, James works as a researcher in plant research, where he continues to explore and advance knowledge in his field. His combined expertise in environmental gardening and soil science helps him contribute valuable insights to both academic and practical gardening communities.

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