Scientific Name
Aloe microstigma Salm-Dyck
Common Name(s)
Cape Speckled Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe microstigma subsp. microstigma, Aloe arabica, Aloe brunnthaleri, Aloe juttae
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe microstigma is an attractive succulent that forms solitary or small clumps of beautiful rosettes of blue-green leaves that warm up to reddish-brown if suffering from environmental stress. It grows up to 32 inches (70 cm) tall with a spread of 20 inches (50 cm). Leaves are adorned with conspicuous white spots, which contrast nicely with the reddish teeth along the edges. The rosette usually produces 2 or 3 flowers simultaneously in early winter. The inflorescences are unbranched and up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall. 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
Aloes are very forgiving plants, 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 Southern Africa (Western and Eastern Cape).
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
