Kalanchoe 'Devil's Backbone'

When it comes to watering, use the soak and dry method. Since it’s a succulent, this plant is quite drought-resistant, but you still need to water it occasionally. Make sure the soil is completely dry before you water it. During hot summer days you should increase watering, allowing the soil to remain moist, but not waterlogged.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana needs bright light, but should not be placed in direct, overpowering sunlight which may scorch its leaves. They can handle low lighting, but in this case they will grow slower and produce fewer flowers. Ideally, place them in a sunny spot, near an eastern- or western-facing window.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana prefers warm temperatures, between 70–90°F (21–32°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought inside when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). If planted outdoors, avoid freezing temperatures. Wintertime temperatures between 35–50°F (2–10°C) could be tolerated, but for short periods of time, and with protection if necessary.

This plant prefers dry, arid climates, so low humidity levels are ideal. High humidity can cause leaf loss, leaf curl and encourage mealybug infestations. If you live in a humid area, increase air circulation by placing a fan nearby or by opening a window.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana prefers a well-draining potting mix. Good soil options include sandy, loamy or cactus mixes and can be amended with bark or perlite for additional drainage. Make sure you also incorporate in quality compost or fertilizer when planting.

In spring and summer you may fertilize your plant every other month with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half-strength. During the fall and winter, reduce fertilization to once every 6 months. Always use a fertilizer specifically designed for houseplants or cacti and succulents to prevent overfertilizing.

The main pests threatening this plant are aphids, mealybugs and spider mites. Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects, usually green, black, brown or yellow in color. They suck on plant sap, which in severe infestations, can cause wilting or discolored leaves. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony-looking pests that feed on plant sap and produce a sticky, sugary substance known as honeydew. This will attract other pests, such as ants. Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the sap. To get rid of all these pests, use neem oil or insecticidal soap to kill them. You can also use natural predators, like ladybugs, lacewings or parasitic wasps.

When it comes to repotting, it is recommended to do so in the spring every other year, as this succulent tends to outgrow its container quite quickly. Make sure you use a pot with drainage holes, and a well-draining potting mix to avoid waterlogged soil.

It's best to only prune off dead or dried leaves. If you want to encourage the growth of new branches, prune off the tips of the stems. You should use a pair of sterile, sharp scissors when pruning, as this will help reduce the chances of infection.

Mulching is not recommended for 'Devil's Backbone'. It grows best if there is direct contact with the soil, because the soil needs to be able to drain away excess water before it can cause the plant any harm.

This plant can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Cut off the top 3–4 inches of the stem from a healthy Kalanchoe daigremontiana plant and remove the leaves from the bottom 1–2 inches. Plant the stem in a pot filled with a well-draining mix and keep it warm and moist. After about a month, the cuttings should take root.

If planted outdoors, ‘Devil's Backbone’ can be supported with stakes, but for indoor plants this is not necessary.

While it's not necessary for this plant to have a rest period, it is important to reduce watering in winter to help the plant conserve its energy and survive cold temperatures. During this time, you should also reduce fertilization.

Kalanchoe daigremontiana is non-toxic to cats and dogs according to the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).