Calandiva Care Guide

A compact burst of color, Calandiva is a flowering variety of the Kalanchoe succulent—known for its clusters of rose-like blooms that can last for weeks, sometimes months. With fleshy, deep green leaves and an easygoing nature, Calandiva brings cheerful energy to any space. It's a low-maintenance charmer that thrives with minimal fuss, as long as you give it the right light and don’t overdo the water.

Light Requirements

Calandiva loves*bright, indirect sunlight and will bloom best when it gets several hours a day. A sunny windowsill or well-lit indoor space is ideal. It can handle some direct morning sun, but harsh afternoon rays may scorch the leaves.

Not enough light? You may see fewer blooms or leggy, stretched growth. Brightness is key for keeping it compact and colorful.

Watering Needs

As a succulent, Calandiva prefers the "soak and dry" method. Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry ou* before watering thoroughly. Always empty the saucer after watering—this plant is prone to root rot if left sitting in moisture.

Water less frequently in fall and winter, especially when it's not actively blooming.

Humidity and Temperature

Calandiva prefers low to moderate humidity and typical indoor temperatures. It’s happiest between 60–85°F (16–29°C) and dislikes drafts or cold air. If temps dip below 50°F (10°C), it can suffer.

No misting needed—this is a succulent after all!

Soil and Repotting

Use a well-draining potting mix, like a cactus or succulent blend. Avoid dense, moisture-retaining soils. A pot with drainage holes is a must.

Repot only when root-bound, typically every 2–3 years, or if you want to refresh the soil after a long bloom cycle. Use a slightly larger pot and trim back leggy growth if needed.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips

Wilting or Mushy Leaves – Overwatering

Symptoms: Droopy, soft, or translucent leaves.
Cause: Soil is too wet, leading to root rot.
Solution: Let soil dry out completely before watering again. If the roots smell foul or appear black, trim affected parts and repot in fresh, dry soil.

Dry, Crispy Leaves – Underwatering or Too Much Sun

Symptoms: Brown leaf tips or curling, crispy foliage.
Cause: Too much direct sun or infrequent watering.
Solution: Water a bit more regularly, and ensure it's not sitting in harsh, direct sun all day.

No Blooms – Lack of Light or Dormancy

Symptoms: Healthy leaves, but no flowers.
Cause: Not enough light, or it's out of its bloom cycle.
Solution: Increase light exposure and reduce water in fall/winter. To encourage blooming, expose it to 12–14 hours of darkness nightly for 4–6 weeks (mimicking shorter days). Then return to bright light—it should bloom soon after.

Leggy Growth – Not Enough Light

Symptoms: Stretched stems, sparse leaves.
Cause: Low light or inconsistent care.
Solution: Move to a brighter spot and trim back leggy stems to encourage compact new growth.

Pests – Aphids or Mealybugs

Symptoms: Sticky leaves, white fuzz, or tiny insects.
Cause: Typical indoor pests.
Solution: Wipe down leaves and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil

Seasonal Care Tips

Calandivas are prized for their long-lasting blooms, often appearing in late winter through spring and lasting for several weeks. But to get those vibrant clusters of flowers year after year, they need a little help—especially indoors.

To encourage blooming, replicate a short-day cycle:
Give your Calandiva 12–14 hours of complete darkness each night for about 4–6 weeks, ideally in fall or early winter. During the day, place it in bright, indirect light. This light/dark contrast mimics natural seasonal shifts and signals the plant to form buds.

Once buds appear, return the plant to its normal bright location and resume regular care. With the right timing, you’ll be rewarded with a burst of rosy, cheerful blooms—no green thumb required.

SHOP THE CALANDIVA