Chinese aloe - Aloe vera var. chinensis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Chinese aloe

Also known as: Indian aloe, Barbados aloe, First aid plant

Chinese aloe (Aloe vera var. chinensis) is an aloe species related to the well-known aloe vera plant. While some variants of aloe vera are edible, chinese aloe is not. This species is originally from South Africa, but is now cultivated around the world in gardens as an ornamental succulent.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese aloe (Aloe vera var. chinensis)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese aloe

Culture

Garden Use

An attractive succulent that spreads rapidly via suckers, chinese aloe is cultivated ornamentally for its unusual visual appeal, speed of growth, and toughness. It is often grown in rock gardens and coastal gardens, and can do well in containers.

Symbolism

Affection, also grief

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Toxicity

Chinese aloe contains aloin, causing digestive upset, diarrhea, and possibly liver damage if ingested. Chronic exposure may lead to electrolyte imbalance, kidney, and liver damage. Skin contact can cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep the plant out of children's and cognitively impaired people's reach. Call poison control or a doctor in case of poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Chinese aloe

Clustering succulent with rosettes up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall.

Mid-green lance-shaped leaves with white spots and whitish teeth on margins.

Blooms with pale orange flowers in warmer months.

Prefers full sun to light shade and minimal watering.

Resilient to cooler temperatures, tolerating brief drops to 20-25°F (-6 to -4°C).

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Care Guide for Chinese aloe

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese aloe thrives in arid conditions with high drought tolerance, requiring water once every three weeks. It prefers soil to dry between waterings to avoid root rot. Typically grown indoors, it benefits from occasional misting to enhance humidity, reflecting its native environment.

Fertilize: Chinese aloe benefits from a succulent-specific fertilizer for vigorous growth. Apply every 3-4 weeks at quarter strength during spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn, and reduce feeding in fall and winter. Watering before fertilizing enhances nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Chinese aloe requires minimal pruning, focusing on removing spent flower stalks and dead leaves. Trim orange or brown leaves to enhance nutrient delivery. Use a knife for smaller plants and pruning shears for larger ones to maintain overall health.

Propagation: Originating from arid regions, chinese aloe thrives with minimal water. To propagate, use cuttings of healthy leaves or stems, allowing them to callous before planting in well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging to promote easy rooting, making it ideal for amateur gardeners.

Repotting: Repot chinese aloe every 2 years in spring into a wide, shallow pot to support root growth. Avoid watering for a week post-repotting to prevent root rot. Position chinese aloe in bright, indirect light and resume watering once new growth indicates acclimation.

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