Tiger Aloe
aloe juvenna
Also known as: ["Snake Aloe","Zebra Aloe"]
Overview
A compact succulent with striking tiger-striped leaves, native to Kenya.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Aloe |
| Botanical Name: | Aloe juvenna |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light with some direct morning sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days in spring and summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with added perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with large particles for aeration; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); stem cuttings root easily in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem or offset.
- Let the 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; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand); can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterilized scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into the main stem.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2–3 cm wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; use a pot with drainage holes.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency 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; avoid heavy, clay-based soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; wilting or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet; leaves may become soft and translucent.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaves to scorch, turn brown, or dry out, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize 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 mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Aloe juvenna, due to the presence of anthraquinone compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe anthraquinone compounds in Aloe juvenna can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe juvenna contains anthraquinone compounds that can have mild laxative effects when ingested. These compounds can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe juvenna toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe juvenna?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aloe juvenna need direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light with so |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in spring an |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
