Aloe ellenbeckii

Scientific Name

Aloe ellenbeckii A.Berger

Synonym(s)

Aloe dumetorum

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe ellenbeckii is a small succulent that forms short clumps with many open rosettes of dark green leaves with small, white spots on upper and lower surfaces and tiny teeth along the margins. The rosettes are up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. Leaves are narrow but thick and grow up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) long. New leaves emerge nearly vertically and then arch over gracefully. In fall to mid-winter, appear branched, up to 2 foot (60 cm) tall inflorescences of orange-red flowers with a round swollen base and green tips in the bud opening to yellow from the bottom of the inflorescence up.

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 Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya.