Scientific Name
Aloe compressa H.Perrier
Synonyms
Aloe compressa var. compressa
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe compressa is a dwarf, stemless or short-stemmed Aloe, with 15 to 20 triangular leaves arranged in two lines, with a rounded tip and green or red-tipped teeth on the leaf margin. The leaves are grayish-green, up to 15 inches (37.5 cm) long and up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The inflorescence is unbranched, up to 28 inches (70 cm) tall, with the flowers clustered at the tip. The flowers are white with 3 brown veins.
Photo via flickr.com
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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. As with all succulents, it's essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.
Aloe 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. During repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to carefully divide the root ball. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.
It needs 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 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
Origin
Native to Madagascar.
Varieties
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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