Christmas Bells
Kalanchoe laxiflora 'Milky Widow's Tears'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
18 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Madagascar
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Kalanchoe laxiflora, commonly known as Milky Widow's Tears, is characterized by its fleshy, succulent leaves and clusters of small, white flowers. This cultivar features a unique milky white sap and is particularly valued for its drought resistance and low-maintenance nature.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings into well-draining soil in spring to early summer.
- Mist cuttings lightly every few days to maintain humidity.
- Water sparingly once roots develop, typically after 4-6 weeks.
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a diluted succulent fertilizer during growing season.
- Transplant to larger containers when roots are crowded.
Pro Tip
Use a cactus or succulent mix for excellent drainage and healthy roots.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight 🌞
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering 💧
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot 🌱
- Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly
- Fertilize during active growth months
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Expose to direct, harsh sunlight which may scorch leaves ❌
- Use heavy, clay soil that retains moisture ❌
- Neglect pest inspection during growing season ❌
- Keep in overly humid environments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Christmas Bells questions
What zones can Christmas Bells grow in?
Christmas Bells is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Christmas Bells deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Christmas Bells, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Christmas Bells bloom?
Christmas Bells typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Christmas Bells need full sun?
Christmas Bells does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Christmas Bells drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Christmas Bells handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Christmas Bells with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
