Mitre aloe - Aloe perfoliata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Mitre aloe

Also known as: Krans-aloe

Mitre aloe leaves are hard, plump, and juicy. They have pale yellow, serrate, fleshy thorns on the leaf margin. The plant is slow-growing, shade-tolerant, drought-tolerant, and is often potted indoors and put on computer desks, coffee tables, or in a study. It is intolerant of low temperatures; temperatures must remain above 10 ℃ in the winter to avoid frost damage.

Scientific classification

Species

Mitre aloe (Aloe perfoliata)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

Red, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Mitre aloe

Distribution of Mitre aloe

Distribution Map

Mitre aloe is indigenous to the southern part of the African continent, where it thrives in its natural habitat. Beyond its native region, mitre aloe has been introduced and can be found in various temperate zones. Cultivation of mitre aloe has been adopted in regions with suitable climates, reflecting its capacity to adapt to environments outside its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountainous rocky

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Mitre aloe provides interest to gardens that don't reach freezing temperatures throughout the whole year, becoming especially ornamental when it produces flowers in the winter. You can grow it as a clumping accent or specimen plant in sunny rock or succulent gardens. It also grows well in pots placed on sunny patios or in tropical greenhouse gardens.

Symbolism

Affection, also grief

Interesting Facts

Mitre aloe can reproduce via seeds, but it also generates numerous daughter plants from roots and stems. Any gardener who wishes to transplant such a daughter plant should use a sterilized cutting tool. Though outwardly hardy, mitre aloe's inner tissue is susceptible to infections.

Name Story

Mitre aloe: The word "mitre" (sometimes spelled "miter," especially in the USA) refers to the tall, pointed hat worn by Catholic bishops and some other clergy. That term itself may have been borrowed from older Greek or Jewish traditional garments. During droughts, the mitre aloe's leaves curve inward to form a similar shape, so the name was adopted for that reason.

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Toxicity

Mitre aloe contains aloin, causing severe digestive issues and liver damage in humans if ingested. It induces similar toxic effects in cats and dogs, with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy from ingesting its sap or juice. Immediate veterinary care is essential for pets showing signs of poisoning.

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Care Guide for Mitre aloe

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Mitre aloe thrives in arid environments with high drought tolerance, requiring watering once every three weeks. As an evergreen, it retains leaves year-round, aiding in water conservation. Preferring full sun, mitre aloe's succulent nature enables resilience during dry periods, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation.

Fertilize: Feed mitre aloe every 6-8 weeks with half-strength succulent fertilizer during the growing season for vigor and bloom potential. Avoid root burn, stop in winter, and increase feeding as mitre aloe matures. Wear gloves for safety; experienced gardeners enjoy its low maintenance and high rewards.

Pruning: Mitre aloe generally doesn’t require pruning; only spent flower stalks and dead leaves need removal. Trim orange or brown leaves to enhance nutrient delivery to healthier parts. Use a knife for smaller plants and pruning shears for larger ones to maintain plant health.

Propagation: Mitre aloe propagates well via cuttings. Choose healthy, disease-free parts and allow them to callous for a few days. Plant in well-draining soil, ensuring moisture and warmth without overwatering. With care, new growth will indicate successful rooting and establishment of a new plant.

Repotting: Repot mitre aloe every 2 years in spring using a pot one size larger with drainage. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and minimal water until new growth appears, promoting root spread and maintaining health.

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