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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Aloe Microstigma (Cape Speckled Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    Aloe Microstigma (Cape Speckled Aloe): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonOctober 17, 2022
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    Aloe microstigma (also known as the Cape Speckled Aloe) is a popular indoor plant that requires little attention and grows very quickly.

    Aloe Microstigma Blooms
    Aloe microstigma (“Aloe microstigma (Asphodelaceae/Xanthorrhoeaceae)” by Dr. Alexey Yakovlev is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    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:

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

    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 NameAloe microstigma
    Common NameCape Speckled Aloe
    FamilyAsphodelaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginSouth Africa
    MaintenanceLow
    Height1-2 feet
    Width1-2 feet
    LightFull sun
    Bloom seasonWinter, Summer
    Bloom colorRed, Orange, Yellow
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought
    Toxicitynon-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.

    Aloe Microstigma Cheat Sheet
    Aloe microstigma cheat sheet (“Aloe microstigma microstigma” by magrietb is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.)

    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

    • Prepare the pot. Choose a pot at least 10-20% larger than the current one.
    • Prepare the soil. The soil should be well draining and have a pH between 5.5-7.5.
    • Choose the spot. Place the plant in a location with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation.
    • Gather the tools. Gardening gloves, a trowel, and pruning shears.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the Aloe from its old pot by gently shaking it loose. 
    2. Use a trowel to loosen and remove any dirt sticking to the root ball.
    3. Place the plant in your new pot and adjust it, so it’s centered.
    4. Add soil around the root ball until it is just below the top of the container.
    5. 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:

    1. Sow your seeds in seed starting mix in individual pots or trays and cover with about 1/4 inch of soil.
    2. Place the pot with the seeds in a warm, sunny spot and keep it moist but not soggy.
    3. When the seedlings emerge and begin to grow, move them into larger pots with well-draining potting soil.
    Aloe Microstigma
    Aloe microstigma (“Aloe microstigma” by wallygrom is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    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.

    Related: Aloe Marlothii (Mountain Aloe): In-depth Guide

    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

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Aloe plants are susceptible to overwatering, so keep an eye on the soil to ensure it doesn’t get soggy. Avoid watering in the winter as frequently as in the summer because the water evaporates slower this season.
    • Overfertilization: Aloe plants are susceptible to overfertilization. They prefer a balanced fertilizer but are only used sparingly. No more than two times in a single year.
    • Browning Leaves: Aloe plants can develop brown spots on their leaves due to excessive or inadequate watering. Prune away the affected areas of the plant and re-evaluate your care routine.

    FAQ

    Aloe microstigma is a primarily ornamental plant. There have been reports of this Aloe being used medicinally to treat skin conditions, but this is backed up by research, and we do not recommend it.

    Yes. The Cape Speckled Aloe will produce beautiful flowers during the winter. The flowers are typically covered by the showier, more prominent white bracts.

    Aloe microstigma is a very easy plant to care for. In order to keep this Aloe happy and healthy, all you need to do is ensure that it receives adequate sunlight and that it isn’t overwatered.

    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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