This is one of my own hybrids sown in 2004. My records for the cross put it as Aloe 'Doran Black' (mother plant) crossed with Gasteria ellaphieae (pollen parent). The resulting plants have always looked very much more Aloe like than Gastrolea, so I have often wondered if my notes were correct or if there was a mix up with the seed packet. This is the first of the seedlings to flower and is now about half way through the flower spike. Interestingly various G.ellaphieae are flowering right now.
Judging by the anthers this plant is sterile (common with Aloe Gasteria crosses). Most interestingly the flowers are an unusual saturated orange colour, which is not so common in Malagasy miniatures - Doran Black, a plant drawing heavily on the influence of Aloe rauhii flowers strong red. The plant with flower measures just over 46cm tall.
Aloe hybrid BMCD1136
Especially interested in Mesembs. small Aloes and South African miniatures and bulbs.
Keen propagator and compulsive 'tickler'! Instagram #myscottishgreenhouse
Very, very interesting, Brian. That's a lovely plant, well worth the wait.
Tony Roberts
Treasurer, Haworthia Society
Chairman, Tephrocactus Study Group
Moderator, BCSS Forum
Kent
(Gasteria, Mammillaria, small Opuntia, Cleistocactus and Sempervivum are my current special interests)
Perhaps the theme for next month's competition will be 'Shades of Orange'
Somerset Phil
Member of Somerset branch. I have a diverse mixture of small cacti plus a few larger survivors from a previous collection. I also like Stapeliads, Titanopsis, Anacampseros, and various other succulents. Now proud owner of many self-raised seedlings.
