Aloe brevifolia 'Variegata'

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

Description

Aloe brevifolia 'Variegata' is a beautiful succulent that forms rosettes of gray-green broadly thick triangular leaves with creamy white or yellow markings different on every leaf. Each rosette gets up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. Leaves 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, 24 inches (60 cm) tall spikes.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown plant can be quite beautiful. 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 tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During the repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. 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.

Origin

This succulent is a form of Aloe brevifolia selected for its variegated leaves.

Photo Gallery

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