Scientific Name
Gonialoe sladeniana (Pole-Evans) Boatwr. & J.C.Manning
Common Name(s)
West African Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe sladeniana, Aloe carowii, Tulista sladeniana
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Gonialoe
Description
Gonialoe sladeniana, formerly known as Aloe sladeniana, is a small succulent that forms stemless rosettes of sharp, triangular, green leaves that point slightly upwards, forming three rows. It grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall, producing suckers that offshoot from the root, eventually forming dense clumps. Leaves are covered in linear white spots, and their narrow white cartilaginous margins are finely notched. The small, sparse, pale pink flowers appear on very thin, up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall inflorescences in spring and summer.
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, 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.
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 sand or pebbles. During the repotting of 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.
It needs a 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 cactus fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Origin
This species is endemic to arid areas of central Namibia.
Links
- Back to genus Gonialoe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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