Scientific Name
Aloe jucunda Reynolds
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe jucunda is a small succulent plant that forms rosettes of triangular glossy green leaves flecked with pale green spots and triangular teeth along the margins. It grows up to 14 inches (35 cm) tall and clusters freely to form dense groups up to 3.3 feet (1 m) in diameter. The rosettes are up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. Leaves are up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The inflorescences are single cylindrical clusters, up to 13 inches (32.5 cm) long, with about 20 flowers. The flowers are pale pink to coral pink, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long and 0.3 inches (7 mm) across. They are produced all year round whenever the growing conditions are adequate.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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.
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. During repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.
It needs 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 cactus 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 Somalia.
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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