Scientific Name
Aloe pearsonii Schönland
Common Names
Pearson's Aloe
Scientific Classification
Family: Xanthorrhoeaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe pearsonii is a densely branched and erect plant up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall, with lower stem area often covered with dead, persistent leaves and the upper area with living leaves. Branching may take place from the base of the stem or higher up. The densely arranged leaves are elongate-triangular, mainly downward curving and arranged in 4 ranks. The dull, bluish-green leaves often turn red, especially in times of drought. The backward curving leaves give the rosettes a distinctive appearance that is unmistakable of this species. The inflorescence is often branched low down into two or three head-shaped racemes. Flower color is varied from red, yellow and red-yellow.
Photo via pieceofeden.blogspot.com
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. Water generously in the summer and nearly cease watering in the winter. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
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… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe
Origin
It is naturally endemic to the arid Richtersveld area, on the border between South Africa and Namibia.
Subspecies, Varieties, Forms, Cultivars and Hybrids
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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