Aloe castilloniae aka Star Aloe

Aloe castilloniae is an easy-care succulent that thrives with minimal attention. This tough species is drought tolerant, adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade, and propagates readily from cuttings. Its forgiving nature and compact size make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced succulent collectors alike.

Aloe castilloniae tolerates temperatures down to 25°F (-3.9°C) but is generally frost-intolerant and requires protection in cold climates. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9b through 11b. In regions with cold winters, grow it as a container plant that can be moved indoors when temperatures drop.

Aloe castilloniae is a small, creeping succulent with vine-like stems reaching 40-180 cm in length and about 1 cm thick. Each stem terminates in a compact rosette of 30-40 triangular leaves measuring up to 6 cm long. The plant forms clumping colonies up to 1 meter in diameter when mature, with stems that naturally trail or cascade over edges.

Aloe castilloniae propagates readily through stem cuttings, offsets, or seeds. Offsets can be separated when they have 2-3 leaves and their own roots. Seeds should be scarified in hot water and soaked for 12-24 hours before sowing in spring to autumn.

Yes, Aloe castilloniae flowers freely in cultivation, producing bright orange-red blooms with a yellow tinge near the mouth during fall and winter. The flowers are approximately 23mm long and appear in lax clusters of 2-9 blooms on unbranched stalks up to 5cm tall. This reliable flowering habit adds to the species' appeal as an ornamental succulent.

Aloe castilloniae can grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 9b-11b where temperatures stay above 25°F (-3.9°C). It thrives in full sun to partial shade with good airflow. In colder regions, grow it in containers that can be moved indoors during winter. Native to Madagascar's arid cliffs, it performs best in dry, warm climates.

Aloe castilloniae prefers to be slightly underpotted and may grow slowly if transplanted into a container that's too large. Repot only when the plant has clearly outgrown its current pot or the soil has become depleted. Use a porous, gritty succulent mix with plenty of pumice or perlite. Spring is the ideal time for repotting.

Unlike many succulents, Aloe castilloniae is actively growing during fall and winter months, which is when it flowers. During this period, provide regular (but still minimal) watering and fertilize once with half-strength fertilizer. In summer, reduce watering further as the plant enters its rest period. Protect from frost in winter regardless of growth activity.

Aloe castilloniae is susceptible to common succulent pests including mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Root rot from overwatering is the most common disease issue. Prevent problems by ensuring excellent drainage, good airflow, and allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Inspect plants regularly and treat infestations promptly with appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Star Aloe’s native range is Southern Africa to India.

Star Aloe does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

To ensure the health of your Star Aloe, 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.

Star Aloe 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 Star Aloe.

Star Aloe 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.

The growth rate of Star Aloe 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.

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.