Scientific Name
Aloe albida (Stapf) Reynolds
Common Name(s)
Grass Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe kraussii var. minor, Aloe myriacantha var. minor, Leptaloe albida
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
This species is native to South Africa and Swaziland. It grows in montane grassland and rocks crevices where the grasses are kept quite short.
Description
Aloe albida is a stemless succulent with dull green leaves arranged in a rosette and attractive white flowers that usually appear in early fall. It grows up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall, proliferating below the ground to form clumps. This Aloe is one of the plants commonly known as Grass Aloes. Leaves are narrow with margins armed with tiny white teeth, up to 20 inches (50 cm) long and up to 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) wide. Flowers appear in a head-shaped raceme on a simple, erect, up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall stalk.
This species is similar to Aloe saundersiae and Aloe inconspicua.
Etymology
The specific epithet "albida (AL-bi-da)" is the feminine form of the Latin adjective "albidus," meaning "white." It refers to the white flowers of the species.
How to Grow and Care for Aloe albida
Light: When growing A. albida indoors, place your plant near a window that gets plenty of bright indirect light. Rotate the pot once or twice a week so that all sides of the plant receive equal lighting. Outdoors, provide light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Plant A. albida in a well-drained soil mix specially formulated for succulents or make your own. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around roots can cause root rot.
Hardiness: When temperatures shift below 50 °F (10 °C), it is time to bring your plant back inside. A. albida can withstand temperatures as low as 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b.
Watering: This succulent does need regular watering but is 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. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
Fertilizing: A. albida generally does not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients. Feed with a fertilizer for succulents in spring and summer only. Be sure to follow the label directions.
Repotting: This plant is not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot it in the spring in a container a few inches larger in diameter every few years to keep it from becoming rootbound.
Propagation: Propagating A. albida can be done using the offsets, cuttings, or seeds from a mature plant. Remove offsets from the mother plant or take cuttings with a sharp knife in late spring or early summer. For best results, sow seeds during the warm months.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Toxicity of Aloe albida
A. albida is not listed as toxic for people and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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