Aloe aristata (Lace Aloe)

Scientific Name

Aloe aristata Haw.

Common Name(s)

Lace Aloe, Torch Plant

Scientific Classification

Family: Xanthorrhoeaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Flower

Color: Orange-red
Bloom Time: Fall

Description

Aloe aristata is a stemless clump-forming succulent with dense rosettes of dark green leaves with small white spots and soft white spines, particularly beneath. It grows no more than 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) tall. Leaves are toothed, lance-shaped, and up to 4 inches (10 cm) long. In the fall, it produces 2- to 6-branched, up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall panicles, bearing cylindrical, up to 1,5 inches (4 cm) long, orange-red flowers.

How to Grow and Care

To grow Aloe aristata in temperate climates, they will need to be taken inside during the coldest weather and keep them in bright sunlight during the summer. This species is hardier than many others within its genus but will still appreciate the warmth. In addition, it requires very little maintenance, making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners.

They flower freely in the summer, and the soft-orange flowers are a wonderful addition to the arid garden. This genus is well known for its ease of cultivation, but they are sensitive to excessive irrigation. Provide regular watering in spring and summer to make the soil thoroughly moist, then allow the soil to dry before watering again. In winter (during the dormant season), water sparingly or not at all, as it is prone to rotting; a thin layer of gravel on top of the soil will prevent this. See more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.

Origin

Native to Lesotho and South Africa (Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal).

Links

• Back to genus Aloe
• Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin

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