Aloe 'Doran Black'

Scientific Name

Aloe 'Doran Black'

Synonym(s)

Often incorrectly called Aloe 'Dorian Black'.

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe 'Doran Black' is a beautiful small succulent that forms rosettes of heavily rough-textured and spotted leaves. The rosettes grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter, and produce new offsets around the base. The leaves are whitish-green, mottled with shades of orange or copper in full sun. Flowers are orange to red, bell-shaped, and appear atop a long spike.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °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, in spring, repot Aloes tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. 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.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.

Origin

This succulent is a hybrid developed by Dick Wright and named after the late nurseryman Doran Black.

Photo Gallery

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