What's this then?

[Roy]

I got this as a plant nobody wanted at a sale. I have assumed that it was one of the grass aloes but I could be way off the mark. Does anyone know what it is? It is flowering but the flowers look very similar to Haworthia flowers - green and white and small.

[Bill]

Well it's no Haworthia, thats for sure. Does look Aloeish, quite like though.

[Rob]

Try Chamealoe africana Roy. (spelling could be dodgy!) I think its a plain old Aloe now too. Mine is just coming into bud too.

[Bill]

Now known as Aloe bowiea. Aloe africana is an altogether different plant.

Described on one site as "an unattractive plant which makes it very attractive to collectors" LOL I wonder why I want one.

[Rob]

Well done Bill.
I knew it was now in Aloe but am too lazy to look before I post!
I may well give mine a new label as it is about to flower. Although I do quite like Chamaealoe!



Post Edited (09-27-06 21:12)

[Roy]

Well, now I know all that I have opened my Guide to Aloes of South Africa and there it is on page 238 as bowiea. Thanks a lot guys.

ps please ignore the fact that I have succulent books as it might ruin my street cred.

[Bill]

What street cred Roy. LOL

[Apicra]

Dear Roy,

Look after that one! This unusual Aloe is now a very rare plant in the wild. It was only ever found in two populations, and I believe one of those has now been destroyed by 'development' in the Eastern Cape. Gideon Smith has documented this.

Best wishes,
Derek Tribble

[Rob]

Roy

Mine isnt open yet but maybe when it is we should try to get them together? ;~)

[Bill]

Did you have to tell him that Derek, I was hoping to wheedle a bit out of him LOL