Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata)
Also known as: Lace aloe, torch plant
The lace aloe: small dense rosettes with white-speckled, soft-spined leaves. It comes from South Africa (Lesotho/Argentina? South Africa), stays around Rosette 8–15 cm, clumping, and tolerates USDA 8–11; hardy to about -7 °C dry. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Aloe
- Origin: South Africa (Lesotho/Argentina? South Africa)
- Mature size: Rosette 8–15 cm, clumping
- Hardiness: USDA 8–11; hardy to about -7 °C dry
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Aloe
- Origin
- South Africa (Lesotho/Argentina? South Africa)
- Mature size
- Rosette 8–15 cm, clumping
- Growth habit
- Dense small rosettes with soft white-edged teeth
- Leaf colour
- Dark green lace-edged leaves with white speckles
- Flower colour
- Orange-pink bells
- Hardiness
- USDA 8–11; hardy to about -7 °C dry
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic
- Other names
- Lace aloe, torch plant
About the Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata)
The lace aloe: small dense rosettes with white-speckled, soft-spined leaves. Despite the name it is no longer an aloe (moved to genus Aristaloe). Very hardy for an aloe relative — fine outdoors to about -7 °C in dry conditions.
Care and cultivation
Aloes want bright light, a coarse mix and restraint with water. Water around the base rather than into the crown, which traps moisture. Most aloes redden in strong sun — this is stress colour, not disease; move to gentler light if the leaves go soft. Light: Bright light; some direct sun for colour, avoid sudden full-sun moves. Water: Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Use a Succulent mix with coarse grit; aloes tolerate slightly richer soil.
Description
Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata) is an Aloe succulent from South Africa (Lesotho/Argentina? South Africa). The lace aloe: small dense rosettes with white-speckled, soft-spined leaves. Despite the name it is no longer an aloe (moved to genus Aristaloe). Very hardy for an aloe relative — fine outdoors to about -7 °C in dry conditions.
Identification
Look for: Dark green lace-edged leaves with white speckles leaves in a Rosette 8–15 cm, clumping form. Also answers to Lace aloe, torch plant. The genus is Aloe, which already narrows down the care requirements considerably. Nickname: 'Lace aloe'.
Common problems
Reddening from sun stress (move into gentler light) • Rot at the base if water pools in the crown • Scale insects on leaf undersides •
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata)?
Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings, and water less in winter when growth slows.
How much light does Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata) need?
Bright light; some direct sun for colour, avoid sudden full-sun moves. If the plant stretches or loses colour, it needs more light.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Aristaloe aristata (Aloe aristata), supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.