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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Aloe Hereroensis (Sand Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    Aloe Hereroensis (Sand Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonNovember 28, 2022
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    Whether you are growing an Aloe hereroensis plant already or plan on introducing one to your home, it is essential to understand how they grow and what proper care they require.

    Aloe Hereroensis In The Wild
    Aloe hereroensis in the wild (Photo 51906528 by (c) Tony Rebelo is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0)

    This guide will give you the basic knowledge to keep your Sand Aloe healthy and looking its best.

    in this article:

    • care
    • pruning
    • repotting
    • propagation
    • blooms
    • pests
    • common-problems

    About Aloe hereroensis

    Aloe hereroensis, commonly known as the Sand Aloe, is a succulent native to South West Africa. Even at its ultimate height, it doesn’t exceed 2 feet. A relatively indoor-friendly species, it is suitable for use as a potted plant.

    It grows in rosettes with long, fleshy leaves that are pale blue-green in color, blushing red under harsh sunlight. The leaf surface has distinct white bands running lengthwise down the center of each leaf.

    The contrast between the pale leaves stands out before a backdrop of mid-greens. This plant is often used as a garden feature, drawing the eye, not for its flashy colors but for its absence.

    Related Article: Learn about different types of Aloe succulents and common varieties

    Botanical NameAloe hereroensis
    Common NameSand Aloe
    FamilyAsphodelaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginSouth West Africa
    MaintenanceLow
    Height1-2 feet
    Width1-2 feet
    LightFull sun
    Bloom colorRed (rarely yellow)
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought
    Toxicitynon-toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)9-11

    Aloe hereroensis Care

    Aloe hereroensis is a very easy plant to care for. It forgives neglect and doesn’t punish forgetful gardeners all that often. Perfect for complete beginners.

    Light

    Aloe hereroensis likes full sun, though it can tolerate some shade in the afternoon. The plant will change the shade of its leaves under direct sunlight, a desirable trait in some gardens.

    Soil

    The Sand Aloe likes well-draining soil. However, it will not tolerate standing water and will rot if the roots are allowed to sit in it for too long.

    Water

    Aloe hereroensis likes infrequent watering during the growing season when it actively puts out new leaves.

    In the winter, cut back on watering until spring, when new growth starts again. This Aloe will tolerate drought very well once established in your garden.

    Temperature and Humidity

    The Sand Aloe likes temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is not tolerant of cold weather or freezing temperatures.

    Average room humidity needs to be maintained for the best results.

    Fertilizer

    The Sand Aloe is not a heavy feeder and does not need to be fertilized regularly. However, once new growth starts in the spring, use a weak liquid fertilizer on the soil.

    Aloe Hereroensis Cheat Sheet
    Aloe hereroensis cheat sheet (Aloe hereroensis Auob C15.JPG by Harald Süpfle is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5)

    Pruning

    The Sand Aloe is a slow grower and does not need to be pruned often. Dead and dying leaves can be removed using sharp shears, but make sure to make a clean cut.

    Potting and Repotting Aloe hereroensis 

    Aloe hereroensis does not need to be repotted very often. However, when it becomes root bound, you can repot it in a container that is 1″ larger than the current one.

    Spring is usually the optimal time for repotting.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the pot. A large pot with drainage holes.
    • Prepare the soil. A mix of soil, peat moss, and perlite is best. Make sure to add some fertilizer.
    • Choose the spot. A spot with plenty of sunlight is best. Good aeration should also be a consideration.
    • Gather the tools. You will need a sharp knife, scissors and a pair of gardening gloves.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the plant from its pot.
    2. Remove any dead or damaged roots using your knife.
    3. Use a pair of scissors to trim off any remaining leaves that are too big (you can also use them later to propagate new plants).
    4. Place some fresh soil in your new container; do not pack it down tightly but make sure to fill all gaps between pot and soil.
    5. Plant the succulent in the center of your container and water lightly.

    Propagating Aloe hereroensis by Cuttings (Step-by-Step)

    Aloe hereroensis can be propagated by cuttings. This is a viable way to increase the number of plants you have. The process involves taking a piece of the parent plant and rooting it in potting soil or sand. To do this, simply follow these steps:

    1. Use a sharp tool to cut off a healthy leaf from your aloe plant (about 8-10 inches long).
    2. Cut the leaf in half and remove any thorns or spines.
    3. Allow the cutting to callus over for over a week.
    4. Place your cutting into a small pot filled with potting soil or sand.
    5. Water lightly and place it in a warm, sunny location until new growth appears (this may take 2-3 weeks).
    6. When new growth appears, transplant your succulent into a larger container or garden bed.

    Blooms

    The plant produces small, bright red-orange tubular flowers on branched inflorescences. The flowers bloom from summer through fall and are pollinated by bees and wasps.

    Related: Aloe Distans (Jewel Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    Toxicity

    Aloe hereroensis is non-toxic. It is safe to be grown around children and pets.

    NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

    Common Pests

    Mealybugs

    Mealybugs are small, white, or gray soft-bodied insects that live on the surface of leaves. Their presence is easily detected by their cottony wax secretions. Mealybugs are attracted to stressed plants, and infestations often occur after repotting. Treat with horticultural oils.

    Scale Insects

    Scales are immobile, small insects with a waxy shell that secretes honeydew. They feed on the sap of these Aloe and can weaken or kill them if left untreated. Treat scales with horticultural oils or soaps as soon as you notice them.

    Aphids

    Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from plants. They can be green, black, or brown in color and may have wings. Aphids are usually found on new growth or under leaves, where they congregate in large numbers. Treat with neem oil or rubbing alcohol.

    AVOID

    • Overwatering
    • Placing under harsh sunlight
    • Using poorly drained potting mediums
    • Fertilizing during dormancy

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Overwatering is a common cause of succulent death. The roots can’t absorb the water fast enough, so it pools around them and can cause root rot or crown rot. Avoid watering unless the soil feels dry.
    • Overfertilization: Overfertilization is another common cause of plant death. It causes the plant to grow too fast and weakens its immune system, making it susceptible to disease. Use slow-release fertilizers or organic fertilizers instead of chemical ones.
    • Browning Leaves: A sign of overwatering or too much sunlight. Adjust your care routine accordingly.

    Everything You Need To Know About : Aloe hereroensis (Sand Aloe) (Video)

    FAQ

    Unlike Aloe vera, Aloe hereroensis is not a medicinal plant with no properties that help with skin conditions. 

    Aloe hereroensis is not edible. It is not toxic, but you shouldn’t consume it orally.

    Aloe hereroensis gets about 1 to 2 feet in height. It is a slow-growing plant that takes several years before it reaches its full size. Perfect for indoor use.

    1. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA
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    Milo Mason

    Milo Mason is a self-proclaimed plant whisperer. With a passion for gardening, houseplants, and all things outdoors, Milo has been cultivating indoor plants for the past five years with an interest in perennials and succulents. He enjoys sharing his insights and research on plant species when it comes to care tips.

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