Haworthia squarrosa
aloe squarrosa
Also known as: ["Haworthia squarrosa","Aloe squarrosa"]
Overview
A compact succulent with rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves that are green with white tubercles and reddish edges when stressed.
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 squarrosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location with indirect light, or outdoor in a sheltered spot with good drainage
- 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 to prevent root rot.
- 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 every 6–12 months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, damaged, or discolored leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers filtered light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows for best results; move to shaded areas during intense midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a cactus-specific fertilizer; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups);Offsets are the easiest method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut at base; remove only dead/damaged leaves; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-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 drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer, reducing to once a month in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure large drainage holes in pot.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become soft, translucent, or develop black spots due to waterlogged cells from cold damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf curling, or sunburn (brown spots) due to excessive heat and light.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Aloe squarrosa. The plant's laxative properties can cause discomfort and dehydration in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe plant contains compounds that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The anthraquinones in the leaves can lead to diarrhea and dehydration if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe squarrosa contains anthraquinone compounds, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and laxative effects when ingested in significant quantities. These compounds are concentrated in the gel and latex of the leaves.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe squarrosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe squarrosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aloe squarrosa flower?
A: It produces small, tubular, yellowish flowers on tall stalks in the spring or summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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