Scientific Name
Aloe descoingsii Reynolds
Synonym(s)
Guillauminia descoingsii
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Etymology
The specific epithet "descoingsii" (pronounced "des-KOYN-see-eye") honors Bernard Descoings🡕 (1931-2018), a French botanist who first discovered this species.
Origin
Aloe descoingsii is native to southwestern Madagascar. It grows on limestone cliffs at an elevation of about 1,150 feet (350 m).
Description
Aloe descoingsii is a small succulent that forms stemless rosettes of dull green, triangular leaves with toothed margins and decorative white warts on both surfaces. It is regarded as the smallest of all Aloe species. The rosettes can grow up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter and freely produce offsets, forming a spectacular mound of dozens or even hundreds of rosettes.
From spring to summer, Aloe descoingsii produces slender stalks that bear urn-shaped, scarlet flowers lightening to slightly orange at the tips. The flower stalks can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.
Subspecies and Varieties of Aloe descoingsii
- Aloe descoingsii subsp. augustina
- Aloe descoingsii var. descoingsii
Hybrids of Aloe descoingsii
How to Grow and Care for Aloe descoingsii
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°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. Water generously in the summer and nearly cease watering in the winter. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
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, carefully divide the root ball. Some kinds of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
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
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