Scientific Name
Aloe arborescens 'Variegata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Aloe arborescens Mill.
Common Name(s)
Candelabra Aloe, Candelabra Plant, Gilded Candelabra, Krantz Aloe, Mountain Bush Aloe, Octopus Plant, Sword Aloe, Torch Aloe, Torch Plant, Tree Aloe
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Etymology
The specific epithet "arborescens" (pronounced "ar-bo-RES-senz") means "becoming a tree; tree-like" and refers to the tree-like growth of older specimens of the species.
The cultivar epithet 'Variegata' (pronounced "var-ee-GAY-tuh") means "variegated; having a pattern of different colors or marks" and refers to the variegated leaves of the plant.
Origin of Aloe arborescens 'Variegata'
Aloe arborescens 'Variegata' is a variegated form of Aloe arborescens selected in cultivation for its variegated foliage. The origin is unknown.
Description of Aloe arborescens 'Variegata'
Aloe arborescens 'Variegata' is an attractive succulent shrub with branching stems that hold rosettes of variegated leaves. It can grow up to 10 feet (3 m) tall. The leaves are green with irregular cream-colored or yellow bands. They are thick, fleshy, sword-shaped, and have margins armed with firm, pale teeth that are usually curved forward.
Occasionally, Aloe arborescens 'Variegata' produces red, tubular flowers in erect terminal racemes that may appear in winter once the stem matures.
This cultivar is also sometimes sold as Aloe arborescens 'Gold Rush'.
How to Grow and Care for Aloe arborescens 'Variegata'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Torch Aloe is an easy plant to grow and is popular in many countries. It enjoys full sun, well-drained, compost-enriched soil, and can tolerate moderate frost but is sensitive to severe frost. It is a fast-growing plant that will tolerate drought and neglect once established. It is primarily grown as an ornamental or accent plant, but it is also an excellent and impenetrable hedge plant.
During the active growth period, water thoroughly. During the rest period, water your Aloe only enough to prevent the soil from drying. Apply a standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the active growth period.
It grows well in average room temperatures and is tolerant of dry air. However, to encourage flowering, giving the plants a short winter rest at a temperature of no more than 50°F (10°C) is best.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
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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