Aloe Variegata

[gasteraloe94]

Hi all,

Most specimens I've seen of this Aloe have been rather small and compact unless they're an older specimen. I'm curious as to why my plant, which is roughly 8-10 years old, looks so different. I'm wondering whether it requires more light (though it does have a bud developing), and also as to why the base of some of the leaves is that brownish colour.

My A. Variegata:


One that seems more typical for reference (from google search):


Many thanks,

Martin

[cactuspip]

I find it grows well indoors on a windowsill with a westerly aspect. It is said to be a species that does better as a houseplant, rather than in a greenhouse.

In habitat it gets very strong light and it appears to be black and white, not green!

[ChrisR]

It does have a vast distribution so varies considerably in size. I often almost kill mine in the greenhouse so it is amazing how they seem to thrive on many a windowsill.

[RICHAUD]

really nice compact form for the second one
which size is the pot ?
Please could you make a photo of the spikes ?

[D^L]

Hi Martin.
Did we discuss this at Wilts BCSS earlier this year?
The second pic looks to be one of the most compact forms to me.
I think, though, the first looks like it needs more light.
Cheers
David Lambie
Bristol

[ChrisR]

I'm with David on that one, it does look etiolated. The other one (Google image) is a beautifully grown example but I just don't think my conditions or treatment could ever produce such a fine plant.

They can make huge plants. These seen recently near Beervlei Dam were big, individually and as clusters.

[RICHAUD]

Hi Chris
Thank for the photos
impressive plant for Aloe variegata: big compact form
some leaves eaten by cattle or wild animals?

[pvdw]

Varigata in my garden. This one is about full grown.

[pvdw]

Varigata plants collected next to my great grandfathers grave site in Calitzdorp Western Cape. It is a tradition to plant these aloes on graves in a big area of the Cape province. There are literally 1000s of plants in some cemetery's. They grow all over the graves, and every ware in between. Some of them are even lying lose on the ground.

Here is a photo of 4 plants planted this year Jan and today. AA batery for scale and the pot is 25cm.

[RICHAUD]

and in South Africa what are the flowering months for Aloe varigata ?

here in the south of France the spikes start to appear