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Cactus SucculentConservatory GreenhouseHouseplants

Aloe somaliensis
  • RHS AGM

Somalian aloe

An evergreen clump-forming succulent with highly ornamental white and green variegated leaves. The spikes to 60-80cm of pale-pink to red tubular flowers are produced in late summer

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Variegated White
Summer Pink Red Green Variegated White
Autumn Green Variegated White
Winter Green Variegated White
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Asphodelaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Human/Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits): Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Aloe can be mat-forming or shrubby evergreen perennials, with rosettes of fleshy leaves and small tubular flowers in racemes or panicles

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Djibouti to Somalia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow indoors in a container of cacti potting compost, or loam-based potting compost with added horitcultural grit. Water moderately when in growth, very sparingly when dormant in winter. Apply a general liquid fertiliser monthly from May to August. Can be placed outdoors in summer, see aloe cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown with heat as soon as ripe or from offsets in late spring or early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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