Growing and caring for lace aloe (Aristaloe aristata) is easy when you follow some basic guidelines. Here are some tips for successfully growing this attractive succulent plant in your home or garden.
Introduction
Lace aloe is a desirable ornamental plant native to South Africa. With its graceful rosettes of arrow-shaped leaves edged with soft white spines, it makes an excellent accent or container plant. Lace aloe grows well both indoors and outdoors in warm, sunny locations. With the right care, this hardy succulent will thrive for years.
Growing Conditions
Light
Lace aloe thrives in bright light and full sun exposure. When growing it indoors, place it near a sunny south or west facing window. Outdoors, choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient light will cause the leaves to become elongated and floppy.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix for containers or sandy soil in garden beds. Lace aloe prefers gritty soil that does not hold moisture. Add perlite, pumice, or small stones to increase drainage. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, around 6.0 to 6.5.
Water
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is the main cause of problems with lace aloe. Water only when the top inch of soil is completely dry. In winter, reduce watering even more, waiting until the soil is bone dry before watering. The leaves will notify you when more water is needed by starting to feel soft and shrivel slightly.
Temperature & Humidity
Lace aloe thrives in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C – 26°C). It can tolerate higher and lower temperatures but may grow more slowly. Average room humidity is fine.
Fertilizer
During the growing season from spring to fall, use a diluted liquid succulent fertilizer once a month. Do not fertilize in winter. Excess fertilizer can damage the roots, so more is not better.
Container Size
Select a pot with drainage holes that is just wider than the root ball. Lace aloe has shallow roots and prefers being somewhat pot-bound. Re-pot every 2-3 years in early spring, moving up just one pot size.
Propagation
Lace aloe propagates easily from offsets, divisions, or cuttings:
- Offsets – Gently remove baby plants or “pups” that form around the base of the mother plant. Allow to dry for 2-3 days before replanting.
- Divisions – Carefully divide mature plants at the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each has some roots attached. Allow to dry before replanting.
- Cuttings – Cut a healthy leaf near the base and allow the cut end to callus for 2-3 days. Insert into well-draining soil. New plants will sprout from the cut end.
Common Problems
Lace aloe is quite robust when cared for properly. Here are some potential issues and solutions:
- Overwatering – Droopy, yellow leaves indicate too much moisture. Allow soil to dry out completely before watering again.
- Underwatering – Wrinkled, shriveled leaves mean the plant needs more frequent watering. Water thoroughly when soil is partly dry.
- Sunburn – Leaves turning reddish-brown have received too much harsh sun. Provide some shade during hottest parts of the day.
- Frost damage – Temperatures below 25°F (-4°C) can damage the leaves. Move pots indoors or protect outdoor plants from frost.
FAQs
How fast does lace aloe grow?
In ideal conditions, lace aloe will grow 6-12 inches tall and wide each year. Growth rate depends on environment, light levels, and soil quality.
Should I bring my lace aloe indoors for winter?
In zone 9 and warmer, lace aloe can stay outside year-round. In colder climates, bring pots inside before first frost to avoid damage.
What size pot does lace aloe need?
Start with a 4 inch pot for a small plant. Mature lace aloe should be re-potted into an 8-10 inch container. Always use containers with drainage holes.
Is lace aloe toxic to pets?
Lace aloe’s leaves can cause stomach upset if ingested by dogs or cats. Keep plants out of pets’ reach. The sap may also irritate skin so wear gloves when handling.
How can I get my lace aloe to bloom?
Mature lace aloes may produce tall flower stalks, especially after a dry period followed by heavy watering. Blooms are orange and appear in late fall or winter.
Should I prune my lace aloe?
Pruning is not necessary but you can trim damaged leaves as needed. Remove dried leaves at the base to improve the plant’s appearance.
Conclusion
With its sculptural foliage and easy care requirements, lace aloe is a must for any succulent lover. Place it in a bright sunny area, water only when the soil has dried out, and fertilize occasionally, and this eye-catching houseplant will thrive indoors or outdoors. Follow these tips to enjoy the graceful beauty of lace aloe for many years.