Family: Crassulaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Kalanchoe rotundifolia, commonly known as common kalanchoe or nentabos, is a succulent plant native to parts of southern and eastern Africa. It is a small, shrubby species with rounded, fleshy leaves and clusters of tubular, orange to reddish flowers that attract pollinators. Because of its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental in dry gardens and landscapes. Its hardy nature and ease of propagation have contributed to its spread beyond cultivation.
Risks & Threats
This species is naturalized on Oʻahu and Maui and possesses traits that are cause for concern. Like many kalanchoe species, it reproduces readily from plant fragments and can establish quickly in disturbed areas, rocky slopes, and dry habitats. Its ability to form dense patches allows it to outcompete native vegetation, potentially altering plant communities and ecosystem functions. Because of these invasive tendencies, Kalanchoe rotundifolia could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. It is recommended to avoid planting this species and instead choose a low-risk or native alternative better suited to supporting Hawaiʻi’s unique environment.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Naturalizing on Maui, and O'ahu, Hawaiian Islands
- Other Kalanchoe species have become invasive
- Toxic to livestock
- Shade-tolerant
- Tolerates many soil types
- Forms dense stands
- Small seeds dispersed by wind and possibly other means
- Each leaf is capable of producing a new plant when it drops to the ground
- Limited ecological information makes accurate risk prediction difficult
Low Risk Traits:
- No confirmed reports of invasiveness elsewhere (possibly due to limited cultivation outside native range)
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
