Aloe cryptopoda

Scientific Name

Aloe cryptopoda Baker

Synonym(s)

Aloe wickensii var. wickensii, Аloe wickensii var. lutea

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe cryptopoda is a beautiful succulent with a spectacular display when in full flower. It grows solitary or in a small group of rosettes, usually stemless or with a short hidden decumbent stem. Leaves are narrow, up to 3 feet (90 cm) long, and up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide. They are grayish-green with reddish-brown teeth along the margins.

The inflorescences are erect, branched, up to 5.7 feet (1.75 m) tall panicles that bear up to 8 conical, densely flowered racemes, more or less uncolored scarlet. Flowers are cylindrical, somewhat trigonous, and up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long, and appear in winter. They are bright orange-scarlet, green-tipped in bud, and paler- to yellowish-tipped when fully open.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 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.

These succulents are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. However, repot Aloes that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing in the spring. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During the repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. Some varieties of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.

Aloe plants need 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 succulent 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 species is native to South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Malawi.

Photo Gallery

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