Scientific Name
Aristaloe aristata (Haw.) Boatwr. & J.C.Manning
Common Name(s)
Guinea-fowl Aloe, Lace Aloe, Torch Plant
Synonym(s)
Aloe aristata, Aloe ellenbergeri, Aloe longiaristata, Tulista aristata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aristaloe
Origin
This species is native to Lesotho and South Africa.
Description
Aristaloe aristata, formerly known as Aloe aristata, is an attractive semi-hardy succulent that forms dense rosettes of thick fleshy triangular leaves. The rosettes grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall with a diameter equal to the height. The leaves are dark green with small white bumps, bristly margins, and tipped with a soft white spine. Flowers are orange-red, tubular, up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long, and appear in up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall panicles in late spring to early summer.
This succulent is the type and sole species of Aristaloe, previously included in the genus Aloe.
Etymology
The specific epithet "aristata (a-ris-TAH-tuh)" is the feminine form of the Latin adjective "aristatus," meaning "having awn." It refers to the lacy edges of the leaves.
How to Grow and Care for Aristaloe aristata
Light: When growing A. aristata indoors, place your plant near a window that gets plenty of bright indirect light. Rotate the pot once or twice a week so that all sides of the plant receive equal lighting. Outdoors, provide light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil: Plant A. aristata in a well-drained soil mix formulated for succulents or make your own. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around roots can cause root rot.
Hardiness: When temperatures shift below 50 °F (10 °C), it is time to bring your plant back inside. A. aristata can withstand temperatures as low as 10 to 40 °F (-12.2 to 4.4 °C), USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b.
Watering: This succulent does need regular watering but is very tolerant of drought conditions for short periods. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry. Cut back on watering during the winter months. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
Fertilizing: A. aristata generally does not require fertilizer but may benefit from the extra nutrients. Feed with a fertilizer for succulents in spring and summer only. Be sure to follow the label directions.
Repotting: This plant is not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot it in the spring in a container a few inches larger in diameter every few years to keep it from becoming rootbound.
Propagation: Propagating A. aristata can be done using the offsets, cuttings, or seeds from a mature plant. Remove offsets from the mother plant or take cuttings with a sharp knife in late spring or early summer. For best results, sow seeds during the warm months.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Toxicity of Aristaloe aristata
A. aristata is not listed as toxic for people and pets.
Uses of Aristaloe aristata
The Pondo people use the juice of A. aristata mixed with water to wash their bodies for its tonic and refreshing effect.
Hybrids of Aristaloe aristata
Links
- Back to genus Aristaloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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