Rauh's Aloe
aloe rauhii
Also known as: ["Rauh's Aloe"]
Overview
A compact, stemless succulent with rosettes of fleshy, green leaves often tinged with red, native to Madagascar.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Aloe |
| Botanical Name: | Aloe rauhii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a well-drained, sunny spot
- 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- 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 direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a south-facing window with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with large particles for aeration; avoid peat-based soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable temperatures; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups);Offsets are the easiest method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset with a clean knife.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after a week.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
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; mature plants in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent infection; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at the base; dispose of removed leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm increase in diameter).
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; 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.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or soft, mushy leaves (cold stress); wilting, scorching, or brown leaf tips (hot stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot; prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting; may lead to sunburn on leaves.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the anthraquinone compounds in Aloe rauhii, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe anthraquinone compounds in Aloe rauhii can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe rauhii contains anthraquinone compounds, which can act as a laxative and irritant when ingested. These compounds may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe rauhii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe rauhii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aloe rauhii flower?
A: It produces small, tubular, yellow or orange flowers on tall stalks when mature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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