Aloe striata aka Coral Aloe

Taxonomy

Aloe striata, commonly known as coral aloe, is a small, stemless South African Aloe species. It is an evergreen succulent with a basal-rosette growth habit, reaching up to 1m in height and width. The broad, blue-green leaves are adorned with narrow, dark lines running longitudinally, while the smooth margins display a pink hue that can turn pinkish-red under full sun exposure. During spring, panicles of coral red flowers emerge, adding a vibrant touch to the plant. Aloe striata belongs to a diverse genus of succulent plants, including the well-known Aloe vera. These plants feature succulent leaves that have evolved to store water, making them low-maintenance options for busy plant owners. With proper care and ample sunlight, Aloe plants may even produce beautiful blooms. The flowers grow from a tall spike and can vary in shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Common names

Coral Aloe

How to care for Coral Aloe

Water

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

Soil

When growing the Coral Aloe, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.

Lighting

Coral Aloe requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Coral Aloe is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

Coral Aloe plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.

Fertilizer

The Coral Aloe grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

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


More info:
Wikipedia