Scientific Name
Aloe distans Haw.
Synonym(s)
Aloe mitriformis subsp. distans
Common Name(s)
Golden Tooth Aloe, Jeweled Aloe, Short-leaved Aloe
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Etymology
The specific epithet "distans" (pronounced "DIS-tans") means "distant" or "spaced apart" and likely refers to the geographical distribution of this species, which is separated from its close relatives, such as Aloe mitriformis.
Origin
Aloe distans is native to South Africa. It is restricted to the West Coast of the Western Cape province, occurring from St Helena Bay to Saldanha Bay.
Description
Aloe distans is a sprawling succulent with stems that grow along the ground, rooting, and bearing glaucous green leaves with margins armed with deltoid, golden yellow teeth. It usually produces offsets at the base, forming dense groups over time. The stems are tipped with a tight rosette and can grow up to 10 feet (3 m) long. The leaves are lance-shaped, somewhat fleshy, measuring up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and 2.8 inches (7 cm) wide. They occasionally have a few scattered, whitish spots above and usually 2 to 4 spines at the tip of the keel.
The flowers are dull scarlet, subcylindrical, and can reach a diameter of 1.6 inches (4 cm). They appear from mid-summer to fall in dense clusters on simple or branched stalks that can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall.
Hybrids of Aloe distans
How to Grow and Care for Aloe distans
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Aloes are very forgiving plants. 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 an intense, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun 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
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