Aloe microstigma (also known as the Cape Speckled Aloe) is a popular indoor plant that requires little attention and grows very quickly.
Learn how to care of this Aloe properly and keep it looking beautiful. You will also learn what mistakes you can easily avoid when growing this gorgeous Aloe at home.
in this article:
About Aloe microstigma
Known for its spectacular blooms, the Cape Speckled Aloe, or Aloe microstigma, is a must-have addition to any winter garden.
It features green leaves with small white spots that complement the dark brown or red teeth that line the margins of the leaves.
When stressed, the otherwise green leaves blush burgundy red, adding another layer of attractiveness to the succulent.
Aloe microstigma is native to South Africa.
Related Article: An overview of different types of Aloes
| Botanical Name | Aloe microstigma |
| Common Name | Cape Speckled Aloe |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Height | 1-2 feet |
| Width | 1-2 feet |
| Light | Full sun |
| Bloom season | Winter, Summer |
| Bloom color | Red, Orange, Yellow |
| Water needs | Low |
| Soil | Well-Drained, Loamy, Sandy |
| Tolerant | Deer, Drought |
| Toxicity | non-toxic |
| Hardiness (USDA) | 9-11 |
Aloe microstigma Care
Aloe microstigma is a succulent that requires very little care. It can be cultivated indoors or outdoors so long as the gardener understands basic succulent needs and how to meet them.
Light
It is a sun-loving succulent that will thrive in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade for a period, but it will only truly blossom under direct sunlight.
A south-facing window will do nicely.
Soil
Aloe microstigma requires well-drained soil that can dry out between watering.
If growing it in a container, use a cactus mix and add extra perlite to ensure good drainage.
Water
It requires very little water. Keep it on the drier side and only water it when the soil has completely dried out.
It is a succulent, so you can expect it to develop root rot if you overwater them. Overwatering is a death sentence.
Temperature and Humidity
Aloe microstigma can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers the low to mid-70s. Therefore, between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit is considered ideal conditions year-round for this Aloe.
It will thrive in moderate humidity but will still do well in a dry climate.
Fertilizer
The Cape Speckled Aloe is a slow grower and does not require much fertilizer. One or two applications of an all-purpose, balanced liquid fertilizer once per year should be sufficient.
Pruning
Pruning isn’t necessary, but you can trim the Aloe back if it becomes too large for its pot. Dead or dying leaves can be removed using sharp tools.
Potting and Repotting Aloe microstigma
Aloe microstigma is a hardy plant that can be kept in the same pot for many years. It does not need to be repotted frequently and will do well in most soils as long as they are well-draining.
However, if you want to increase its size, repotting is recommended every 2-3 years. The best time to do so is in spring.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Remove the Aloe from its old pot by gently shaking it loose.
- Use a trowel to loosen and remove any dirt sticking to the root ball.
- Place the plant in your new pot and adjust it, so it’s centered.
- Add soil around the root ball until it is just below the top of the container.
- Water the plant thoroughly until water begins draining from the container’s bottom.
Propagating Aloe microstigma by Seeds (Step-by-Step)
Aloe microstigma is best propagated using seeds sown just before winter (around July to September). Here’s the rundown:
- Sow your seeds in seed starting mix in individual pots or trays and cover with about 1/4 inch of soil.
- Place the pot with the seeds in a warm, sunny spot and keep it moist but not soggy.
- When the seedlings emerge and begin to grow, move them into larger pots with well-draining potting soil.
Blooms
In winter, the Cape Speckled Aloe produces bright yellow and orange flowers that appear on multiple unbranching stalks. Interestingly, the flowers are yellow and orange simultaneously, making a two-toned display hard to look away from.
Toxicity
Aloe microstigma is non-toxic. In fact, the sap of the Cape Speckled Aloe is said to have medicinal properties. However, this is not backed up by scientific research at this point.
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 a nuisance for many aloe plants. If you see white cottony spots on your plant, these are signs of mealybugs. To eliminate these pests, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to wipe them off with a paper towel.
Scale Insects
These tiny nuisances attach themselves to the leaves, stems, and roots and suck the sap from the plant. Use a cotton swab laced with rubbing alcohol to remove them gently.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, green insects that can affect your aloe plant. They suck the sap from the plant and leave a sticky substance behind. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to wipe them off with a paper towel for treatment.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
