Mountain aloe (Aloe marlothii)

Mountain aloe

The mountain aloe (Aloe marlothii) is a succulent plant noted for its competence to thrive and enrich a deserted landscape. It can grow tall and is single-stemmed. Tapering bluish-green leaves have red-brown spines along the edges. The mountain aloe is also a home remedy plant in some cultures of Southern Africa; its blooming flowers attract hummingbirds.

Scientific classification

Species

Mountain aloe (Aloe marlothii)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

10 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Red, Orange

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Mountain aloe

Quickly Identify Mountain aloe

Robust succulent reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) in height

Leaves with gray-green color, leathery texture, and reddish-brown spines

Skirt of old leaves persisting around the trunk

Bright red-orange flowers in broad, branching inflorescence

Distinctive presence with substantial leaves and striking flower display

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Care Guide for Mountain aloe

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Mountain aloe is a drought-tolerant succulent from arid regions, thriving with minimal moisture. Water every three weeks, allowing the soil to dry completely. Its thick leaves make mountain aloe ideal for full sun environments, particularly in xeriscaping or rock gardens with sporadic rainfall.

Fertilize: Fertilize mountain aloe quarterly with low-nitrogen food (e.g., 10-40-10) during spring and summer growth phases. Apply half the recommended dose on moist soil to avoid nutrient burn. Stop feeding during fall and winter dormancy. Over-fertilization can weaken growth and harm roots.

Pruning: To maintain mountain aloe, prune only spent flower stalks and dead leaves. Trim orange or brown leaves to enhance nutrient flow. Use a knife for smaller plants and pruning shears for larger ones. Regularly remove dried plant parts for optimal health.

Propagation: Mountain aloe is a hardy succulent that propagates well from viable seeds sown in well-draining sandy soil. Proper moisture through light misting is crucial, while overwatering is harmful. After transplanting seedlings carefully, providing ample sunlight and minimal water will promote their growth as drought-resistant plants.

Repotting: Repot mountain aloe every 2 years to support its upright growth of up to 4m (13ft). Early spring is ideal for repotting in a slightly larger, well-draining pot. After repotting, reduce watering for one week to help mountain aloe settle and avoid root trauma.

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