Scientific Name
Aloe compressa H.Perrier
Synonym(s)
Aloe compressa var. compressa
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe compressa is a small succulent with triangular leaves arranged in a solitary, fan-shaped (distichous), usually stemless rosette. The leaves are grayish-green with a rounded tip and green or red-tipped teeth along the margins. They are up to 15 inches (37.5 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) broad.
The flowers are up to 1.3 inches (3.3 cm) long and white or reddish with red to brown midveins in the upper half. They appear clustered at the top of a slender, usually unbranched, up to 28 inches (70 cm) tall stalk in fall.
Origin
Aloe compressa is native to Madagascar. It grows on quartzites along the Mania River, a northern extension of the Interno Massif, at elevations between 3,280 and 4,920 feet (1,000 and 1,500 m).
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Aloes are very forgiving plants. 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 of sand or pebbles. When repotting a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.
It needs intense, 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 cactus 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.
Varieties
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
