Aloe brevifolia aka Crocodile Plant

Taxonomy

Aloe brevifolia, also known as the short-leaved aloe, is a tiny, compact succulent perennial that is native to the Western Cape, South Africa. It has fleshy, blue-green leaves with spiny serrations and can grow up to 80cm in size. This evergreen plant is popular as an ornamental plant in rockeries and desert gardens worldwide due to its drought tolerance and beauty. Aloe brevifolia is also a vulnerable species in its natural habitat and is listed as such on the IUCN's global Red List. Though it requires winter heat, it can be grown as a houseplant or under glass in temperate regions. This succulent plant belongs to the genus Aloe, which contains numerous other beautiful succulent plants in various colors. Aloe plants are perfect for busy plant parents as their succulent leaves evolved to store water in dry climates. With proper care, including plenty of sunlight, Aloe plants may even bloom with flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow growing out of a large spike.

Common names

Crocodile Plant, Short Leaved Aloe, Aloe Breveyola, False Candlelabra

How to care for Crocodile Plant

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Crocodile Plant due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Crocodile Plant does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Crocodile Plant, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Crocodile Plant thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Aloe Breveyola.

Toxicity

Crocodile Plant is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

Crocodile Plant prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Crocodile Plant is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Crocodile Plant grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Crocodile Plant’s native range is Southern Africa to India.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Crocodile Plant blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia