Gonialoe variegata aka Aloe Variegata

Gonialoe variegata is a small succulent that stays green year-round. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. Gardeners call it tiger aloe or partridge breast aloe. Its old names include Aloe variegata and Aloe ausana. It comes from southwestern Namibia to South Africa's Free State. It grows in desert and dry shrubland, including the Karoo. This dry home helps explain why it needs care with water.

The plant forms small groups of rosettes with no stems. These leaf clusters also produce offsets, or new small plants. The leaves stay stiff, thick and pointed all year. White bands cross the dark green or brown leaves. They grow in three rows, each with a keel beneath. Small white teeth line parts of the leaf edges. Plants stand about 0.7–1 foot [0.2–0.3 m] tall. Groups of rosettes span about 0.7–1 foot [0.2–0.3 m]. The RHS gives higher limits for both height and spread. These reach 1.6 feet [0.5 m]. Plants may take five to ten years to reach full size.

Tube-shaped flowers hang from upright racemes, or clusters, above the leaves. Flower stalks reach about 0.7–1 foot [0.2–0.3 m]. Blooms may be salmon-red, pink or orange with green edges. Yellow blooms are rare. The sources give different times for bloom. The RHS lists summer; LLIFLE gives winter or early spring. LLIFLE also links cool winters to flower growth. This small plant suits pots, patios and indoor displays. Its bold leaf pattern adds form in a small space.

Give it full sun and a potting mix that drains well. It can grow in light shade. Weak light, though, makes growth pale and stretched. Use peat-free cactus compost or loam-based compost with added grit. Give modest amounts of water as it grows. Keep it much drier in winter. Too much water can cause rot, most often in winter. The RHS calls for liquid feed each month, May through August. Its H1C rating suits indoor growth, with summer trips outdoors. Reports note brief cold tolerance, but do not rely on this. Keep it safe from frost.

Scale insects and mealybugs may attack it. Apart from these pests, it has few disease problems. The RHS says it needs no pruning. Grow new plants from offsets in late spring or early summer. You can also use seed, with warmth to help it sprout. Do not eat this plant. Eating it can cause severe discomfort. Wear gloves when you handle it, then wash your hands.