Aloe bellatula

Aloe bellatula

Family: Aloaceae

It is a small stemless and suckering species forming dense fleshy clump of upright leaves. It is distinguished by having thin leaves, up to 13 cm long, with the upper side slightly grooved. Although both surfaces of the leaves are covered with rough papillae, they are very flexible. Tiny, pale teeth along the leaf margins make them feel rough rather than sharp. The flowers are pendulous, bright coral-red, long, bell-shaped on the end of a long stalk.

Sowing instructions: Seeds germinate very well but may damp off if overwatered. Use a mixture of river sand, compost and soil to sow seeds in. Sprinkle the seeds evenly on the surface and cover with a layer of small pebbles. The pebbles help the seedlings to stay upright and prevent damping off. Keep seed tray in a dry warm corner and do not allow to dry out. Transplant the seedlings after one year.

Locality: Ex Hort. Harvest: May 2024