Aloe microstigma (Cape Speckled Aloe) is an evergreen succulent perennial forming solitary or small clumps of beautiful rosettes of blue-green leaves, which warm up to reddish brown if suffering from environmental stress. The leaves are adorned with conspicuous white spots, which contrast nicely with the reddish teeth along the edges. This Aloe produces several unbranched spikes of flowers, 3 ft. tall (90 cm), that are red in bud and open to orange and yellow orange. Noted sometimes for their bicolor look, the cheerful flowers brighten the dull winter landscape with their towering warm colors reminiscent of flames on candles.
How to Grow and Care
Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown Aloe can be quite beautiful. As with all succulents, it’s essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.
Hardiness: Hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
Origin: Aloe microstigma native to Southern Africa (Western and Eastern Cape).
Soil: Plant Aloes in a well-drained soil specially formulated for cacti and other succulents or make your soil mix. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around roots can cause root rot.
Watering: These succulents do need regular watering but are very tolerant of drought conditions for short periods. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry. Cut back on watering during the winter months. Overwatering is the top reason Aloe plants die. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
Fertilizing: Aloes generally do not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients. Feed with a fertilizer for cacti and other succulents in spring and summer only. Be sure to follow label directions.
- ALSO READ some more info HOW TO GROW AND CARE ALOE
- Scientific Name: Aloe microstigma Salm-Dyck
- Common Names: Karoo aloe, Small-spotted aloe, Bottlebrush Aloe, Rosary Vine
- Synonyms: Aloe arabica, Aloe brunnthaleri, Aloe juttae, Aloe khamiesensis, Aloe amoena, Aloe framesii
- Family: Asphodelaceae
- Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
- Tribe: Aloeae
- Genus: Aloe
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| source pic: agaveville.org , mercurynews.com |
How to Grow and Care
Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown Aloe can be quite beautiful. As with all succulents, it’s essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.
Hardiness: Hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
Origin: Aloe microstigma native to Southern Africa (Western and Eastern Cape).
Soil: Plant Aloes in a well-drained soil specially formulated for cacti and other succulents or make your soil mix. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around roots can cause root rot.
Watering: These succulents do need regular watering but are very tolerant of drought conditions for short periods. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry. Cut back on watering during the winter months. Overwatering is the top reason Aloe plants die. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
Fertilizing: Aloes generally do not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients. Feed with a fertilizer for cacti and other succulents in spring and summer only. Be sure to follow label directions.
- ALSO READ some more info HOW TO GROW AND CARE ALOE
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| source pic: flickr.com |
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