Zebra Aloe
aloe zebrina
Also known as: ["Zebra Cactus","Zebra Plant"]
Overview
A compact succulent with striking zebra-striped leaves and bright 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 zebrina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor rock garden with excellent drainage
- 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 every 6–12 months or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove damaged or dead leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; 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 east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Ideal 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from sudden temperature drops; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; 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 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 (70–80°F), bright indirect light, and moderate humidity (50–60%).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite/sand mix.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; mature plants establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, pot, well-draining soil, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use a small pot for offsets; 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; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly at the base; dispose of removed leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use a well-draining mix to prevent root rot.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; avoid overwatering.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply 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 every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer, reducing to monthly in fall/winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy garden soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing/browning), stunted growth, or soft mushy leaves (cold) or wilting/browning tips (heat).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot, and may lead to leaf damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may lead to sunburn or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
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, ingestion of Aloe zebrina can cause gastrointestinal irritation in cats. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe plant contains compounds that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, leading to digestive upset. Prolonged or large ingestion may cause more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAloe zebrina contains anthraquinones, 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 zebrina toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aloe zebrina?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Aloe zebrina flower?
A: Yes, it produces bright red flowers, typically in 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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