Scientific Name
Aloe compressa var. schistophila H.Perrier
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Etymology
The specific epithet "compressa" (pronounced "kom-PRESS-uh") means "compressed" and refers to the unique, distichous (laterally compressed) leaf arrangement of this species.
The varietal epithet "schistophila" (pronounced "skis-TOF-ih-luh") means "cleft-loving; growing in rock crevices" and refers to the preference of this variety to grow in the cracks and crevices of schistose rocks (schist) in its native habitat.
Origin of Aloe compressa var. schistophila
Aloe compressa var. schistophila is native to central Madagascar. It grows on schistose rocks north of Ambatofinandrahana at an elevation of about 4,600 feet (1,400 m) above sea level.
Description of Aloe compressa var. schistophila
Aloe compressa var. schistophila is a small, stemless or short-stemmed succulent with fleshy, gray-green leaves arranged in two opposite vertical rows. The leaves are narrow, with a pointed tip and small teeth along the margins. They can measure up to 15.6 inches (39 cm) long and 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide.
The flowers are tubular, white with three brown veins, and appear clustered at the tip of an unbranched stalk. They can reach up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length.
How to Grow and Care for Aloe compressa var. schistophila
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Aloe is a very forgiving plant. 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 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
