Aloe maculata
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsphodelaceae
GenusAloe
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Aloe maculata, commonly known as the Soap Aloe, is a succulent plant native to Southern Africa. It is known for its spotted leaves and vibrant orange-red flowers. This plant is drought-tolerant and can thrive in arid conditions. It is often used in xeriscaping and as an ornamental plant in gardens.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Aloe commutata var. bicolor
Aloe disticha
Aloe gasterioides
Aloe grahamii
Aloe latifolia
Aloe leptophylla
Aloe leptophylla var. stenophylla
Aloe macracantha
Aloe maculosa
Aloe picta var. major
Aloe saponaria var. latifolia
Aloe spuria
Aloe trichotoma
Aloe tricolor
Aloe umbellata
Blotched aloe
Broadleaf aloe
Soap aloe
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
GDD5,475
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Aloe maculata requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and can tolerate low humidity. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor environments.Harvest
Aloe maculata, commonly known as the Soap Aloe, is typically harvested for its leaves, which contain a gel used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. The leaves can be harvested year-round, but it is best to do so when the plant is mature and has a robust rosette of leaves. To harvest, use a sharp knife to cut the outermost leaves close to the base of the plant. Ensure that you leave enough leaves on the plant to allow it to continue growing. After cutting, the leaves should be allowed to drain their yellow sap (aloin) before extracting the clear gel inside. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging the remaining leaves and the central rosette.Soil
Aloe maculata prefers sandy, well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize Aloe maculata sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 10-40-10. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, typically once a month.Repotting
Repot Aloe maculata every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Aloe maculata can be propagated through offsets or leaf cuttings. Remove offsets from the base of the plant and allow them to dry for a day before planting in a new pot. Leaf cuttings should be allowed to callous over before planting.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Aloe maculata. However, you can remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.Toxicity
Aloe maculata is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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