Scientific Name
Aloe dorotheae A.Berger
Common Name(s)
Crimson Aloe, Sunset Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe dorothea, Aloe harmsii
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
This species is native to Tanzania.
Description
Aloe dorotheae is an eye-catching succulent that forms rosettes of shiny yellowish-green leaves that turn orange-red in full sun. It grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, freely producing offsets to form large clumps of rosettes growing on sprawling or decumbent stems. Leaves are thick, fleshy, and recurved, with teeth along the margins and often with some white spots. Flowers are tubular, orange-red, or yellow with green tips. They appear on up to 2 foot (60 cm) long, usually unbranched flower stalks in winter.
Etymology
The specific epithet "dorotheae" honors Miss Dorothy Westhead (fl. 1908), London.
How to Grow and Care for Aloe dorotheae
Light: When growing Aloes indoors, place your plants near a southern or southwest-facing window that gets plenty of bright, indirect light. Outdoors, provide light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Plant Aloes in well-drained soil specially formulated for cacti and other succulents or make your soil mix. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around roots can cause root rot.
Hardiness: Aloe dorotheae can withstand temperatures as low as 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b.
Watering: These succulents need regular watering but are very tolerant of drought conditions for short periods. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry. Cut back on watering during the winter months.
Fertilizing: Aloes generally do not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients.
Repotting: These plants are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot them in the spring in a container a few inches larger in diameter every few years to keep it from becoming rootbound.
Propagation: Propagating Aloe can be done by using the offsets, cuttings, or seeds from a mature plant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Toxicity of Aloe dorotheae
Aloe dorotheae is not listed as toxic for people and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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