Scientific Name
Aloe pictifolia D.S.Hardy
Common Names
Kouga Aloe, Speckled Aloe
Scientific Classification
Family: Xanthorrhoeaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe pictifolia is an attractive small Aloe up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. It slowly forms small groups of leaf rosettes (up to 10 inches/25 cm wide) from a short, creeping stem. Leaves are reddish-green to pinkish and are long and very narrow. Both sides of the leaves are covered with small, white spots. Small reddish-brown teeth are present along the margins. Flowers are a dull red, turning yellow when open.
Photo via flickr.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
Native to the Eastern Cape Providence of South Africa.
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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