Mountain Aloe

aloe marlothii

Also known as: ["Hedgehog Aloe","Flat Aloe"]

Family: Asphodelaceae Genus: Aloe Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A large, robust succulent with a rosette of fleshy, gray-green leaves and tall spikes of yellow or orange flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asphodelaceae
Genus: Aloe
Botanical Name: Aloe marlothii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in arid to semi-arid regions
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 a year or when dead leaves are present.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning, focusing on removing only dead or diseased foliage.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but benefits from some afternoon shade in very hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in summer to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, soft stems, or root rot indicate overwatering or poor drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; Provide shade during peak summer heat; Avoid low-light conditions

Watering

every 3–4 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Avoid frequent shallow watering.

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 warm temperatures between 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.

Protect from frost; Avoid sudden temperature swings; Adjust watering with temperature changes

Fertilizing

every 3 months with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer

Fertilize only during active growth; Use a cactus-specific formula; Never fertilize dry soil

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).Offsets are the easiest method for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Remove offset or cutting.
  2. Let it callus for 1–2 days.
  3. Plant in well-draining soil.
  4. 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 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 take 4–8 weeks to root and establish.

Tools Needed

Sharp, sterile knife; Pots with drainage holes; Rooting hormone (optional)

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; Use a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity; Do not overwater 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. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife

Checklist

Sterilize tools; Cut dead leaves at base; Wear gloves; Clean up debris

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; Trim any dead roots; Repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil; Water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 3–4 years.

Checklist

Check root boundness; Prepare new pot with drainage; Trim roots if necessary; Use fresh soil

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; Water deeply; Ensure drainage; Adjust for season

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring water reaches the root zone. Water slowly to allow absorption and avoid runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; Wilting or sunburn spots 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 to a warmer location; Ensure soil is dry; Apply a protective layer of mulch around the base.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or stunted growth, especially if combined with inadequate water.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; Water deeply in the morning; Increase air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth season; Dilute fertilizer; Water before application; Avoid contact with leaves

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

Yellowing leaves in Aloe marlothii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or root rot. It can also be a sign of stress due to environmental factors such as excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Aloe marlothii is often a sign of water stress, either due to underwatering or overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering causes dehydration and loss of turgidity in the leaves.

Leaf spots on Aloe marlothii can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by high humidity or overhead watering. These spots may appear as dark, necrotic areas and can spread if not managed.

Rotting in Aloe marlothii is typically caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root and stem rot. This condition results in soft, discolored tissues and can eventually lead to plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Aloe marlothii is mildly toxic to cats due to the presence of anthraquinone compounds, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. The sap may also irritate the skin or mucous membranes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The leaves of Aloe marlothii contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs, including diarrhea and vomiting. Prolonged or excessive ingestion may lead to more severe symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of pets and seek veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Aloe marlothii contains anthraquinone compounds that can act as a laxative when ingested, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and wear gloves when handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Aloe marlothii toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Aloe marlothii?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Q: Does Aloe marlothii need full sun?

A: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Asphodelaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 3–4 weeks during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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