Aloe bakeri

Aloe bakeri is a species of flowering plant in the family Asphodelaceae, native to Madagascar. It grows on rocky hills at low elevations and forms multiple rosettes of spidery succulent leaves. The leaves are green or reddish-green and heavily mottled with white. They are narrow and fleshy, measuring about 10 cm long, with straight or slightly curved white teeth that are 1 mm long and spaced about 1-2 mm apart. This evergreen perennial can reach a height of 10-20 cm and a width of 40 cm. In summer, it produces attractive tubular flowers that are red or orange with green tips. These flowers, which are about 2 cm long, are borne on racemes that can grow up to 30 cm tall. They are a source of nectar for birds, bees, and wasps. Aloe bakeri requires a minimum temperature of 10 °C and is best grown in hardiness zone 11 in the US. It is often cultivated under glass in temperate regions. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. However, it may be susceptible to scale and mealybugs. As a houseplant, Aloe bakeri thrives in a bright spot with good ventilation and shelter. During its growth phase, it should be watered well, but when dormant, it requires very little water. With its interweaving rosettes and multi-colored speckled foliage, this delicate and structurally interesting succulent is perfect for the windowsill or a dish garden. The Latin specific epithet "bakeri" honors John Gilbert Baker of Kew, one of the two British horticulturalists.