Scientific Name
Aloe calcairophila Reynolds
Synonym(s)
Guillauminia calcairophila
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Etymology
The specific epithet "calcairophila" (pronounced "kal-kai-roh-FY-luh") means "limestone-loving" and refers to the affinity of this species for lime-bearing substrates.
Origin
Aloe calcairophila is native to central Madagascar. It is restricted to a small area east of the Itremo Massif🡕 at elevations between 4,265 and 4,600 feet (1,300 and 1,400 m).
Description
Aloe calcairophila is a small, slow-growing succulent with a fan-shaped (distichous) arrangement of its fleshy, grayish-green leaves. It can grow 4 inches (10 cm) and branch near the base, forming a small clump over time. The leaves are gray-green to purplish, with teeth along the margins that are folded inward.
The urn-shaped flowers are white, though, with ample light, the buds may be red at first. They appear on a slender, unbranched stalk that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
Hybrids of Aloe calcairophila
How to Grow and Care for Aloe calcairophila
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 10b to 11b: from 35°F (1.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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.
Aloes are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot plants in the spring that are tipping 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 kinds of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
It needs an intense, bright light. They can withstand full summer sunlight once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) but will survive down to 40°F (4.5°C). Feed with cactus fertilizer only in the summer. 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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