Scientific Name
Aloe scorpioides L.C.Leach
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Origin
Aloe scorpioides is native to Angola. It grows in wooded areas in large colonies on rocky slopes or moderately shaded areas.
Description
Aloe scorpioides is a shrubby succulent that forms loose rosettes of narrow, recurved, pale green to yellowish-green leaves with prominent, widely spaced teeth. It grows up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall, branching from the base or above. The leaves are up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) wide.
The flowers are scarlet with yellow stripes, measure up to 1.1 inches (2.8 cm) long and 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) in diameter, and appear in dense conical racemes on usually simple stalks in winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 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; a well-grown Aloe 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. Water generously in the summer and nearly cease watering in the winter. Do not let water stand in the rosettes. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 ºF (21 to 27 ºC) but will survive down to 40 ºF (4.5 ºC).
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 of sand or pebbles. When repotting 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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