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Aristaloe aristata

Aristaloe aristata

Post number 4: back to succulents with Aristaloe aristata, or the ‘lace aloe’.

Aristaloe aristata used to be called Aloe aristata, until phylogenetic studies showed it is not an Aloe. Aristaloe aristata still appears under the name Aloe aristata, and in fact it is labelled as this in some of my books- so be warned!

Aloe is a huge genus, with over 500 species. Aloe normally have a rosette of leaves that are thick and fleshy.

The name Aloe is a derivative of the Arabic word ‘alloeh’, which means shining bitter substance, which is accurate since Aloe leaves have a bitter sap.

Studies have shown that Aristaloe aristata is closely related to the Atroloba and Haworthia genus’ and not the Aloe genus. As a result, a new genus ‘Aristaloe’ was created to represent its uniqueness. Aristaloe aristata is the only species in the Aristaloe genus! So it is really unique!

Aristata means bristly or awned and refers to the Aristaloe aristata’s lacey edged leaves.

Aristaloe aristata originates in South Africa, and in South Africa they call it ‘langnaaldaalwyn’, which is a mouthful! Its natural environment ranges from sandy dry areas to cold mountain slopes, hinting at its versatile nature.

I was gifted my Aristaloe aristata. It has a floaty appearance, with small wisps at the end of its leaves and a gentle texture. It has small white bumps along its dark green leaves. It lives up to its ‘lace aloe’ name and is beautiful and delicate.

My plant is approximately 5cm tall, but they can grow to around 20cm in height.

Care instructions: Aristaloe aristata loves full sun, but care should be taken in summer to avoid the leaves from scorching, so some shade may be needed in hotter months.

I have my Aristaloe aristata potted in cactus potting mix, with a thick layer of grit at the base of the pot to prevent root rot.

Like most succulents Aristaloe aristata should only be watered when the soil is dry, with reduced watering over winter. When watering, the plant should be watered deeply to encourage long root growth.

Fertiliser can be used, ½ strength every month or so in spring to autumn but is not required.

Testament to Aristaloe aristata’s hardiness, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C, up to 30°C.

My Aristaloe aristata has started to grow an offset, and these can be used to propagate new plants.

If provided with a notable cold winter, they send off long stems which produce orange flowers. I hope mine does this, as these flowers look like something you would expect to find on an alien planet! I will update this post if flowers appear!

This aloe-exile sits pride of place in my collection. Its understated beauty alongside how easy it is to care for, make this a treat of a succulent and one I would recommend adding to your plant family.

 Any questions/corrections- please comment below 😁

Aristaloe aristata

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