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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Aloe Marlothii (Mountain Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    Aloe Marlothii (Mountain Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonNovember 29, 2022
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    Being easy to care for and maintain, Aloe marlothii plants are a great addition to any home garden.

    Aloe Marlothii
    Aloe Marlothii (“Mountain Aloe (Aloe marlothii)” by berniedup is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    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:

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

    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 NameAloe marlothii
    Common NameMountain Aloe
    FamilyAsphodelaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginSouth Africa
    MaintenanceLow
    Height8-10 feet
    Width4-6 feet
    LightFull sun
    Bloom seasonWinter
    Bloom colorRed, Yellow
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought
    Toxicitynon-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.

    Aloe Marlothii Cheat Sheet
    Aloe Marlothii cheat sheet (“Bergaalwyn {aloe marlothii}” by Drew Avery is licensed under CC BY 2.0.)

    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

    • Prepare the pot. One size larger than the previous container to account for future growth.
    • Prepare the soil. Well-draining and sandy. A commercial succulent or cactus mix will do.
    • Choose the spot. Sunny with good air circulation.
    • Gather the tools. Gardening shears, trowel, spade, plastic spoon, and a pair of gloves.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the plant from its container with a trowel or by hand.
    2. Unearth the root ball and shake off excess soil to reveal any circling or fibrous roots (these can be trimmed).
    3. Fill the new container with soil to about an inch from the top. 
    4. Gently place the plant on top of the soil, ensuring not to squeeze or bruise it.
    5. Firmly press down around the root ball with your hands or a spoon until you feel resistance from its weight.
    6. Add more soil as needed to cover any exposed roots.
    7. Water after a week has passed.

    Propagating Aloe marlothii by Seeds (Step-by-Step)

    1. Sow the Aloe seeds in a tray filled with fine-textured, well-draining potting mix.
    2. Ensure that the planting medium is moist, then place the container in a warm spot.
    3. Place an upside-down bowl over it to create humidity around your seeds.
    4. Keep the soil moist at all times but not soggy. Seeds should germinate within two weeks.
    5. As the plant grows, move it into a sunny window or outdoors when temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).
    6. Transplant into a permanent spot when big enough.

    Propagating Aloe marlothii by Offsets (Step-by-Step)

    1. Gently remove an offset from the plant.
    2. Wait for it to callus over and heal.
    3. Plant in well-draining soil.
    4. Water well and keep in a warm, sunny spot.
    Aloe Marlothii Blooms
    Aloe Marlothii blooms (“Aloe Marlothii, Huntington Library Gardens” by DominusVobiscum is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    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

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Overwatering causes most of an Aloe plant’s woes, especially in winter when it’s cold outside. If you leave your aloe plant sitting in water for more than a day, then it can rot from the inside out! Prevention is key if you want your Mountain Aloe to live a long life.
    • Overfertilization: Overfertilization can cause aloe plants to develop nutrient burn, which is a condition that causes the leaves to turn brown and crispy. You can avoid this problem by using fertilizer sparingly and only when your plant really needs it.
    • Browning Leaves: Aloe plants often develop brown leaves due to a lack of water or too much sun. If you keep your aloe plant indoors, then its leaves may turn brown if they’re getting too much light. However, if the problem is too much light (such as leaving your aloe plant outside in the direct sun), then the browning leaves can be fixed by placing some form of shade over it during the day.

    Aloe marlothii (Mountain Aloe) : Step By Step Care Guide (Video)

    FAQ

    Yes, Aloe marlothii is good for the skin. Its gel contains chemicals that help soothe burns and cuts as well as promote healing.

    Aloe marlothii needs a spot in full sun for a significant portion of the day. Keep the soil dry and fertilize once or twice a year at most. Avoid overwatering and protect from frost.

    You can propagate Aloe marlothii by taking offshoots or seeds. If your plant has already begun to offset, this is the easier method by far.

    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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