aloe arborescens
Scientific name
Aloe arborescens Mill.common names
Candlestick Aloe, Candlestick PlantSynonyms
Aloe arborescens subsp. arborescens, Aloe fructicosa, Aloe perfoliata var. arborescensScientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Gender: AloeOrigin
This species is native to the summer rainy areas of southeastern Africa (South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi).Description
Aloe arborescens is a large succulent shrub with branching stems that bear attractive rosettes of pale green, yellowish, or sometimes blue-green leaves. It grows up to 3 m tall. Each rosette is up to 45 cm in diameter. The leaves are thick, fleshy and narrow, with visible teeth along the edges. The flowers are cylindrical, vibrant orange-red and appear in late autumn and early winter. The inflorescence is usually unbranched and rises up to 60 cm above the foliage.Etymology
The specific epithet "arborescens (ar-bo-RES-senz)" means "to become a tree" or "tree-like" and refers to the tree-like growth of older specimens. It is the present active participle of the Latin verb "arboresco".How to care for Aloe arborescens
Light:When growing A. arborescens indoors, place your plant near a window with plenty of bright indirect light. Rotate the pot once or twice a week so that all sides of the plant receive equal light. Outdoors, provide light shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.Ground: Plant A. arborescens in a well-draining soil mix specially formulated for succulents, or make your own. Drainage is essential because too much moisture around the roots can cause root rot.
Resistance: When temperatures drop below 10°C, it's time to bring the plant back inside. A. arborescens can withstand temperatures as low as -3.9 to 10°C.
Watering:This succulent needs regular watering, but is very tolerant of short-term drought conditions. Water deeply, but only when the soil is dry. Reduce watering during the winter months. Do not let water stand in the rosettes.
Fertilization: A. arborescens does not usually require fertilizer, but can benefit from the extra nutrients. Feed with a fertilizer for succulents only in spring and summer. Be sure to follow the label instructions.
toxicity
Although A. arborescens is known for its beneficial effects on human health, it can be mildly toxic to dogs and cats when ingested.
Aloe Arborescens
Vase 12 cm | Total height 20 cm