Scientific Name
Aloe aristata Haw.
Common Names
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, no more than 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) tall, clump-forming succulent with dense rosettes of stubby, lance-shaped, toothed, white-margined, dark green leaves, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, with small white spots and soft white spines, particularly beneath. In the fall, produces terminal panicles, up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall, 2 to 6 branched, bearing cylindrical, orange-red flowers, up to 1,5 inches (4 cm) long.
Photo via davesgarden.com
How to Grow and Care
In order 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 other species within its genus, but will still appreciate the warmth. 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 help to prevent this… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe aristata.
Origin
Native to Lesotho and South Africa (Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal).
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