Being easy to care for and maintain, Aloe marlothii plants are a great addition to any home garden.
This in-depth delve will teach you how to properly care for your Mountain Aloe, including tips and tricks for taking care of its soil, sun exposure, watering, and fertilizing needs.
in this article:
About Aloe marlothii
The Aloe marlothii (Mountain Aloe) is a beautiful succulent plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. Native to South Africa, it has been introduced to many parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It is often used for landscaping and can be found in many gardens worldwide.
The rosette of green leaves is borne on a single stem that becomes more and more prominent with age. The leaves are densely covered in spines at the juvenile stage but less so as adults.
Related Article: Different types of Aloe succulents
| Botanical Name | Aloe marlothii |
| Common Name | Mountain Aloe |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Height | 8-10 feet |
| Width | 4-6 feet |
| Light | Full sun |
| Bloom season | Winter |
| Bloom color | Red, Yellow |
| Water needs | Low |
| Soil | Well-Drained, Loamy, Sandy |
| Tolerant | Deer, Drought |
| Toxicity | non-toxic |
| Hardiness (USDA) | 9-12 |
Aloe marlothii Care
Aloe marlothii is a relatively easy plant to care for. It does not require much attention, demanding little from the gardener beyond the basics.
Light
The plant will thrive in full sun. However, it prefers a location that receives at least four hours of direct sunlight daily.
Although it can survive in partial shade as well, it will not grow to be as vigorous.
Soil
Aloe marlothii prefers well-drained soil that is sandy or gravelly. It will not tolerate heavy, wet soil or standing water in the root zone.
If your garden does not drain well, use raised beds filled with cactus and succulent potting mix instead of regular potting soil.
Water
The Mountain Aloe does not require a lot of water. In fact, overwatering can lead to root rot or other fungal problems. It is best to allow the soil to dry out between watering.
This may be as little as once every week or two during the hot summer months.
Temperature and Humidity
The Mountain Aloe does best in warm climates. Unfortunately, it will not tolerate temperatures below freezing.
It is best to provide some heat relief from late fall through spring. Ideal temperatures of this Aloe range from 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fertilizer
Mountain Aloe does not require a lot of fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can be harmful to the plant. It is best to fertilize once every three months during the growing season at most.
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer administered through the water.
Pruning
The Mountain Aloe is generally a low-maintenance plant. It is best to prune this Aloe if it begins to look unkempt or unhealthy. You can cut off any dead leaves and trim back any dead growth you find on the plant’s surface.
Potting and Repotting Aloe marlothii
Aloe marlothii is a typical aloe plant; and does not need to be repotted very often. In fact, it is best to repot this Aloe only when the roots begin to grow too large for its container.
If you decide to change up its container, choose one with plenty of drainage holes. Again, spring is the best time to undergo this process.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Remove the plant from its container with a trowel or by hand.
- Unearth the root ball and shake off excess soil to reveal any circling or fibrous roots (these can be trimmed).
- Fill the new container with soil to about an inch from the top.
- Gently place the plant on top of the soil, ensuring not to squeeze or bruise it.
- Firmly press down around the root ball with your hands or a spoon until you feel resistance from its weight.
- Add more soil as needed to cover any exposed roots.
- Water after a week has passed.
Propagating Aloe marlothii by Seeds (Step-by-Step)
- Sow the Aloe seeds in a tray filled with fine-textured, well-draining potting mix.
- Ensure that the planting medium is moist, then place the container in a warm spot.
- Place an upside-down bowl over it to create humidity around your seeds.
- Keep the soil moist at all times but not soggy. Seeds should germinate within two weeks.
- As the plant grows, move it into a sunny window or outdoors when temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).
- Transplant into a permanent spot when big enough.
Propagating Aloe marlothii by Offsets (Step-by-Step)
- Gently remove an offset from the plant.
- Wait for it to callus over and heal.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water well and keep in a warm, sunny spot.
Blooms
The flowers vary in color between shades of yellow, orange, and red. They are borne of laterally extending (almost horizontal) racemes that rise from the center of the rosette. This is also why this species is sometimes referred to as Flat-flowered Aloe.
Multiple racemes (around 30) grow to bear these flowers.
Related: Aloe Maculata (Soap Aloe) Care Guide
Toxicity
Aloe marlothii is non-toxic. It is safe for humans and animals. However, it should not be consumed.
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 feed on sap and can cause damage to the plant. If you notice white cottony masses on your Aloe, then it probably has mealybugs infesting it. If left untreated, mealybugs will eventually kill your plant!
Scale Insects
Scale insects are usually smaller than 1/8 of an inch long. They tend to be brown, but they can also be yellow or tan in color. These insects secrete a protective shell-like substance. This covering helps them hide from predators while they suck sap from the plant. If you see this covering on your Aloe, then it likely has scale insects infesting it!
Aphids
Aphids are also sap-sucking insects that can be white or grey in color. They tend to be found on new growth and under the leaves of your aloe plant. If you notice small pear-shaped insects crawling around your Aloe, these are likely aphids.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
