Mountain Aloe
aloe secundiflora
Also known as: ["Mountain Aloe","Aloe secundiflora"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to East Africa, known for its rosette of fleshy leaves and tall inflorescence of orange-red 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 secundiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden in a warm, dry area
- 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 waterlogged soil.
- 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 or yellowing 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 slowly to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, place near a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with 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 with a clean knife.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
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 appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut dead leaves at the base; dispose of removed leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a 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
Use well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root rot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 2–3 weeks during growing season (spring/summer), reducing frequency to once a month in 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
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or become brittle; growth may slow if humidity is too low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season only; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, ingestion of Aloe secundiflora can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress in cats. The sap may also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe plant contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe secundiflora contains anthraquinone glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and laxative effects when ingested. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloe secundiflora toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe secundiflora?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Does Aloe secundiflora attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
