Aloe 'Firecracker' is one of the out-of-this-world Aloe hybrids with great textured leaves and an explosion of colors when grown in bright light, truly resembling its namesake.
Scientific Name
Aloe 'Firecracker'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
Aloe 'Firecracker' is an Altman Plants original hybrid created in 2016 and patented (PP33031) in 2021. The seed parent is Aloe 'Pink Blush' while the pollen parent is an unnamed seedling resulting from a cross of Aloe divaricata, Aloe intermedia, and Aloe 'Pink Blush'.
Description
Aloe 'Firecracker' is a lovely, small succulent that forms star-shaped rosettes of deltoid leaves that blush red, white, and green. The rosettes can grow up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) tall and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter and offset from the base, forming clumps over time. The bumpy leaves with sawlike margins appear dangerous but are quite safe to touch. Their colors can vary depending on the growing conditions.
The rosettes produce erect stalks that bear a loose cluster of red flowers. The flower stalk can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall. This plant is a rebloomer and can bloom three to four times a year.
How to Grow and Care for Aloe 'Firecracker'
Light: When growing Aloe 'Firecracker' indoors, place it in a window with plenty of bright indirect light. Rotate the pot once or twice a week to ensure all sides of the plant receive equal lighting. Outdoors, the plant prefers light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Great drainage is essential for growing this plant because too much moisture for an extended period can cause root rot. Use commercial soil for succulents, or make your own well-draining mix.
Temperature: When temperatures shift below 50 °F (10 °C), it is time to bring this plant inside. It tolerates heat fairly well but will not survive a hard frost. Aloe 'Firecracker' grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: This plant needs regular watering but can tolerate drought conditions for short periods. Water deeply, but only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, and do not let water stand in the rosettes. Cut back on watering during the winter months.
Fertilizing: Although it generally does not require fertilizer, Aloe 'Firecracker' will benefit from extra nutrients. Use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
Repotting: Repot only as needed during spring. Pick a container that is one size larger and with drainage holes.
Propagation: To propagate Aloe 'Firecracker', remove the offsets from a mature plant from late spring to early summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Toxicity of Aloe 'Firecracker'
Aloe 'Firecracker' 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
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