Coral Aloe
aloe striata
Also known as: ["Coral Aloe","Coral-Flowered Aloe"]
Overview
A succulent species of aloe native to South Africa, known for its smooth, grey-green leaves and coral-red flowers.
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 striata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden in a sunny, sheltered 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 root rot.
- 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 a year or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak heat; move indoors if outdoor conditions become too intense.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate pot for even growth; use sheer curtains if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with added perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid peat-heavy mixes; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); remove pups when they are at least one-third the size of the parent plant.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset with a clean knife.
- Let it callous 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 moderate humidity around the cutting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use sterile tools; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut 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 maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut dead leaves at the base; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
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; provides fresh soil and room for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid crown wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the leaves; 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 perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning); wilting; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Leaves become soft and translucent; roots may rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; ensure soil is dry before cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, turn brown, or develop sunburn spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering if soil dries too quickly; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicAloe striata is mildly toxic to cats due to the presence of anthraquinone compounds in its leaves. These compounds can cause gastrointestinal distress and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe leaves of Aloe striata contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The anthraquinones present can lead to diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe striata contains anthraquinone compounds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. These compounds are primarily found in the latex of the leaves and are known to have laxative effects in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe striata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe striata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aloe striata flower?
A: Yes, it produces coral-red flowers, typically in late winter or early spring.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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