dwarf version of the Aloe genus. It is stemless with dark grey-green leaves densely packed in a rosette. Each leaf is about 15cm long and 2cm wide, spotted with tubercles. Its fleshy leaves retain water allowing the plant to get through periods of drought without trouble. It is a small plant, usually growing about 15 to 20cm in a tight rosette formation.
Plant Growth
The lifespan and growth period varies on how well the plant is maintained but this plant can live 50 to 100 years. It produces red/coral colored flowers that are long and tubular.
Distribution
The plant is native to South Africa and also grows in California, Texas, Arizona, and Louisiana.
Habitat
Aristaloe aristata is native to South Africa and is therefore best suited to warm, dry conditions. Its fleshy leaves retain water allowing the plant to get through periods of drought without trouble. It is commonly cultivated as a garden plant around the world. It prefers well-drained soils, but can tolerate a variety of rainfalls. It can also tolerate temperatures down to -7°C, due to its adaptation to cold mountain tops.
11cm