Genus of about 130 species of annual, biennial, and perennial succulents, shrubs, climbers, and small trees, occuring in semi-desert or shady areas of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, C. Africa, South Africa, Madagascar, Asia, Australia, and tropical America. Some are tree-like or shrubby. There are many types of Kalanchoe. The most popular is K. Blossfeldiana - it can be forced into flower at any time of the year and can be accurately timed for holidays.