El aloe brevifolia It is a non-cactus succulent plant that is often planted in gardens for cacti and the like. Its easy cultivation and maintenance, in addition to its rapid growth, make this species one of the most suitable for beginners.
Do you want to know more about him? If so, do not doubt that, after reading this article, you will know how to take care of this wonderful plant.
Aloe brevifolia characteristics
Our protagonist it is an evergreen plant native to the Cape province of South Africa. Its surname, »brevifolia» derives from the little growth of the leaves. It is known by the common name Crocodile Teeth, since the margins of its leaves are protected by thick spines about 0,5 cm high in the shape of a tooth. It is a plant that forms more or less tall basal rosettes up to 40-50cm high.
The flower stalks, which appear in spring, can reach practically the same height as the Aloe. From its highest part the flowers sprout, which are tubular in shape and red in color. These have no aroma, since their pollinators, mostly insects, have no smell.
How do you take care of yourself?
If you want to have one or more specimens, here is your care guide:
- Location: outside, in full sun.
- Irrigation: two or three times a week in summer, and every 4-5 days the rest of the year.
- Soil or substrate: it is preferable that it has good drainage, although it is not demanding. It can grow without problems in soils such as limestone. If it is potted, you can use universal growing medium mixed with perlite in equal parts.
- Subscriber: from the beginning of spring to the end of summer, it must be paid with a fertilizer for cacti and succulent plants following the instructions specified on the package.
- Planting or transplanting time: in spring.
- Rusticity: withstands cold and very weak and occasional frosts of up to -2ºC.
Did you know this plant?