Scientific Name
Aloe brevifolia 'Variegata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Aloe brevifolia Mill.
Synonym(s)
Aloe brevifolia f. variegata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
Aloe brevifolia 'Variegata' is a form of Aloe brevifolia selected for its variegated leaves.
Description
Aloe brevifolia 'Variegata' is an attractive small succulent that forms rosettes of gray-green leaves with irregular creamy white or yellow markings. The rosettes can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. The leaves are broadly thick and triangular and have white spines along the margins and a few along the keel of the lower surface.
In late spring, orange tubular flowers appear on unbranched spikes that can reach up to 24 inches (60 cm) in length.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Aloes are very forgiving plants. However, as with all succulents, Aloe must never be allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.
These succulents are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. However, in spring, repot Aloes tipped over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. When repotting a larger plant, dividing the root ball carefully is possible. Some varieties of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
Aloe plants need strong, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C) but will survive down to 40 °F (4.5 °C). Feed with a succulent fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant.
See 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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