Kumara haemanthifolia (Haemanthus-leaf Aloe)

Scientific Name

Kumara haemanthifolia (Marloth & A.Berger) Boatwr. & J.C.Manning

Common Names

Haemanthus-leaf Aloe

Synonyms

Aloe haemanthifolia (basionym)

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Kumara

Description

Kumara haemanthifolia, formerly known as Aloe haemanthifolia, is a rare, succulent plant with grayish-green, tongue-shaped leaves with bright red margins. They grow in a fan shape, similar to Kumara plicatilis. In fact, this succulent looks very much like a diminutive, stemless form of the tree-like K. plicatilis. The flowers are bright scarlet and appear at the end of winter.

Photo via inaturalist.org

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °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. As with all succulents, it is essential that Aloe is never 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. Repot Aloes 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 repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to carefully divide the root ball. 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… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe