Botanical name

Aloe aristata

Other names

 

Family

Asphodelaceae

Dimensions

A small stemless aloe appearing in dense clusters, resembling some haworthia species; when in bloom over 40cm and the rosette about 12 cm high

Description of stem

Stemless

Description of leaves

Triangular green to dark green leaves tapering to tiny soft white spines; both leaf surfaces covered in globular white spots sometimes with small spines; finely toothed leaf edges

Description of flowers

The red or pink pendulous perianths have notable basal swellings; the inflorescence consists of a couple of branched racemes per rosette, appearing in November and December

Description of seed/fruit

 

Description of roots

 

Variation

 

Propagation and cultivation

Multiplies from suckers, transplants easily, semi-shade or full sun

Tolerances

Cold resistant; copes with drought, but looks good when sufficiently watered

Uses

Generally available as a garden plant

Ecological rarity

Common, not threatened

Pests and diseases

 

Other

 

Location

Arid, rocky karoo veld as well as open grassland, sandy soil

Distribution (SA provinces)

Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State

Country

South Africa, Lesotho