Aloe microstigma (Cape Speckled Aloe)

Scientific Name

Aloe microstigma Salm-Dyck

Common Names

Cape Speckled Aloe

Synonyms

Aloe microstigma subsp. microstigma, Aloe arabica, Aloe brunnthaleri, Aloe juttae

Scientific Classification

Family: Xanthorrhoeaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe microstigma is an attractive, evergreen, succulent perennial up to 32 inches (70 cm) tall and up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter, forming solitary or small clumps of beautiful rosettes of blue-green leaves, which warm up to reddish brown if suffering from environmental stress. The leaves are adorned with conspicuous white spots, which contrast nicely with the reddish teeth along the edges. It usually produces 2 or 3 flowers simultaneously in early winter. The inflorescences are unbranched, up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall. The flowers are bicolored, with red buds turning orange.

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. As with all succulents, it's essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.

Aloe 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 carefully divide the root ball. 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

Native to Southern Africa (Western and Eastern Cape).

Links

• Back to genus Aloe
• Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus

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