Aloe 'Coral Fire'

Scientific Name

Aloe 'Coral Fire'

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe 'Coral Fire' is a wild-looking succulent that forms a cluster of rosettes on a short trunk. The rosettes grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter. Leaves are dark green with white dashes, beautiful coral-colored margins, and teeth that darken with age. They are fleshy, upright, and up to 12 inches (30 cm) long. The marginal teeth are particularly showy when backlit and, while they look wicked, they are actually soft to the touch. The orange flowers rise just above the foliage in winter.

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. 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. During repotting of 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 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

This succulent is a Kelly Griffin's hybrid and involves the crossing of several species over several generations.