Scientific Name
Aloe succotrina Lam.
Common Name(s)
Fynbos Aloe, Mountain Aloe, Table Mountain Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe soccotorina, Aloe soccotrina
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloe succotrina is an attractive succulent shrub that grows up to 5 feet (1.5 m) tall. Solitary specimens do occur, but it is usually found in dense clumps. It can develop a short trunk but is mostly seen as acaulescent. The rosettes grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter. They hold many upcurved, up to 18 inches (45 cm) long and 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide leaves that are a dull gray-green with a few white spots and attractive white margins and teeth. Old leaves and leaf bases are often stained a purple color. Flowers are bright orange-red, tubular, and appear on unbranched, up to 3 foot (90 cm) long spikes in winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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. 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.
These succulents are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. However, in spring, repot Aloes that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During the repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. Some varieties of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
Aloe plants need 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 succulent fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Origin
This species is endemic to Cape Town and the south-western corner of the Western Cape, South Africa.
Hybrids
Links
- Back to genus Aloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.