Sunset aloe
- Common Name: Sunset aloe
- Scientific Name: Aloe dorotheae
- Family Name: Asphodelaceae
- Origin: Tanzania
- Height: 1 ft
- Width: 1 to 2 ft
- Growth: Moderate
- Zone: USDA Zones 10 through 11
- Light needs: Full sun
- Salt tolerance: Low
- Soil/pH/Texture: Grows in sandy or rocky, well-drained soil, such as a cactus soil mix. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0).
- Moisture: Water moderately, allowing soil to dry out between waterings.
- Drought tolerance: High
- Pests/Diseases: Prone to root rot when overwatered.
- Growing conditions: Grow this succulent in a warm, sunny area with good drainage. Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, and restrict watering during winter when the plant is dormant. Fertilize with liquid fertilizer once every couple of months during the growing season. Sunset aloe does well in containers and in xeric gardens.
- Characteristics: This squat, low-growing succulent has no stems or branches. The thick, fleshy, toothed leaves grow from the center of the plant in a rosette formation. Leaves are green with white flecks when young but will turn red from stress or high sun exposure. The flowers are borne on a tall peduncle in a cluster and are salmon pink. It spreads with offsets, often forming large clumps.
- Propagation: By seeds or offsets.
- Facts: It is considered critically endangered in the wild due to its very small distribution. Its disappearance is likely due to collection for medicinal purposes.
- Designer considerations: Perfect for mixed succulent containers and rock gardens, where its bright red foliage contrasts well with duller-colored plants.
Location
Cactus & Succulent Garden
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Sunset aloe