Scientific Name
Aloe buettneri A.Berger
Common Names
West African Aloe
Synonyms
Aloe agavifolia, Aloe barteri, Aloe congolensis, Aloe paedogona, Aloe paludicola
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe buettneri is a succulent plant up to 4 inches (20 cm) tall, with thick, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) in diameter. It is known for its medicinal uses. The leaves are rimmed by alternating paired and solitary teeth and come together to form an underground bulb-like base making the plant appear stemless. The flowers are arranged in a loose panicle. It carries up to 12 branches with bulbs that vary in color from green-yellow, orange or dull red.
Photo via flickr.com
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °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. As with all succulents, it is essential that Aloe is never 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. In the spring, repot Aloes that are 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 carefully divide the root ball. 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
Aloe buettneri is native to West Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Subscribe now and be up to date with our latest news and updates.