Crocodile Aloe
aloe brevifolia
Also known as: ["Short-leaved Aloe","Crocodile Fescue Aloe"]
Overview
A compact, succulent species forming low-growing rosettes with fleshy, triangular leaves that have small teeth along the margins.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Aloe |
| Botanical Name: | Aloe brevifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, container, or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove old or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide partial shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry fully between waterings; reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C). Can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions. Avoid temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; avoid contact with leaves.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).Offsets are the easiest and most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent plant.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use small pots to limit soil volume; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into the main stem.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to improve airflow and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut leaves at the base; remove only dead or damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.Offsets may need repotting sooner if they outgrow their space.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard excess water to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet. Prolonged cold may lead to leaf damage or death.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells. Ensure soil is dry before cold exposure and provide a heat source if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours, increase humidity with misting, and water more frequently if soil dries out quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt accumulation.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Aloe brevifolia. The laxative effects can lead to dehydration and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe anthraquinone compounds in Aloe brevifolia can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to diarrhea and dehydration. While not highly toxic, ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe brevifola contains anthraquinone compounds that can act as a laxative, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. Prolonged or excessive ingestion may cause electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe brevifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe brevifolia?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can Aloe brevifolia be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light but thrives best outdoors in a sunny, well-drained location.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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