Scientific Name
Aloe 'Blue Elf'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
Aloe 'Blue Elf' is probably one of the hybrids created by Edward C. Hummel. Aloe humilis is one of the parents.
Description
Aloe 'Blue Elf' is a popular succulent that forms rosettes of upright, gray-blue leaves with teeth along the margins. It forms a dense clump and can reach up to 18 inches (45 cm) in height and 2 feet (60 cm) in width. The leaves turn pinkish-red when stressed.
The tubular, orange flowers appear on showy spikes, usually from early winter to early spring.
This hybrid is also sold as Aloe 'California Aloe' (not Aloe 'California', similar but a more robust plant) or Aloe 'Blue Boy' (not to be confused with one of Kelly Griffin's hybrids with the same name).
How to Grow and Care for Aloe 'Blue Elf'
Light: When growing Aloes indoors, place your plants in a southern or southwest-facing window with plenty of bright, indirect light. When growing outdoors, provide light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Plant Aloes in 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.
Hardiness: Aloe 'Blue Elf' can withstand temperatures as low as 20 to 50 °F (-6.7 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Watering: These succulents 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.
Fertilizing: Aloes generally do not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients.
Repotting: These plants are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot them in the spring in a container a few inches larger in diameter every few years to keep them from becoming rootbound.
Propagation: Propagating Aloe can be done by offsets, cuttings, or seeds from a mature plant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Toxicity of Aloe 'Blue Elf'
Aloe 'Blue Elf' 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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