Scientific Name
Aloe aristata (bitter & shiny substance, the best one) 'Safari Zambezi'
Common Name
Safari Zambezi Aloe, Aloe
Origin
Native to South Africa
Description
This Aloe's bright green leaves contrast with the white ridges on their surface to show a zany pattern to the world! Give this succulent a bright spot and make sure the soil dries out between waters and it will reward you with standout foliage making interesting shapes and patterns as it grows. In a warm, bright spot it might even give you a flower stem in summer, growing up from the centre of the plant with often brightly-coloured flowers hanging from it.
Light
Aloes need bright light! Ideally, you should be giving your plant a few hours of direct sunlight per day; your best bet is a South- or West-facing window.
Water
Allow the soil to totally dry out between waters. Reduce watering further in winter to help it cope with the cooler temperatures and lower level of light.
Humidity
Aloes are adapted to low humidity, so make sure they are not in a damp location. Hose down occasionally to clean off dust but make sure it can totally dry out in between.
Soil
Use a free-draining soil; a mix with added sand and grit, such as a mix designed for cacti and succulents, will work well here. Repot every 2-3 years as the plant grows.
Food
Feed every two months throughout the year; aloes are used to soil with not too many nutrients. Water down a houseplant feed or use a 'cactus & succulent' labelled feed for best results.
Temperature
Ideally likes temperatures of 13-25°C; make sure it doesn't drop below 10°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Aloes reproduce by sprouting pups out of the side of the parent plant, and you can propagate these to give you brand new, baby plants! You'll give them the best chance of success if you divide in spring or summer and make sure the pups are about a quarter the size of the parent plant. Cut the root away from the parent root, and make sure the cut is clean, and then you can pot straight into its own pot of well-draining soil.
