Scientific Name
Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa'
Common Name(s)
Mozambique Tree Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe tongaensis 'Medusa', Aloe 'Medusa', Aloe barberae 'Medusa', Aloe bainesii 'Medusa'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa', formerly known as Aloe tongaensis 'Medusa', is a tree-like succulent with heavy branching stems bearing pale green leaves that often take on an orange hue. It slowly grows, reaching up to 12 feet (3.6 m) in height. The leaves are thin, recurved, and measure up to 18 inches (45 cm) long.
In late fall to early winter, a stout flowering stem rises to 2 feet (60 cm) above the foliage before branching. Each upright branch bears compact, rounded clusters of pale orange buds that open to a pale salmon color.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Aloes are very forgiving plants. 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. In the spring, repot Aloes tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. When repotting a larger plant, dividing the root ball carefully is possible. 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
Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa' is a cultivar of Aloidendron tongaense.
Links
- Back to genus Aloidendron
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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