Soap Aloe
(Aloe maculata)
Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata)
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Stan Shebs
CC BY-SA 3.0
Image By:
Stan Shebs
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 3.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Stan Shebs | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Stan Shebs | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Aloe_saponaria_3.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description={{en|Flowers of ''[[:en:Aloe thraskii|]]'' from [[:en:Amanzimtoti|]], South Africa}} |Source=Transferred from [http://en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia] (Original text : ''self-made'') |Date=created 25. June. 2010 ({{Date| |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Aloe maculata, commonly known as Soap Aloe, is an evergreen succulent native to the rocky outcrops and open grasslands of Southern Africa. It is a highly adaptable species that often hybridizes with other aloes, which can complicate identification. Soap Aloe typically grows in clumps and reaches a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) with a similar spread. The fleshy leaves are adorned with distinctive "H-shaped" spots and can vary in color from green to reddish tones, especially when stressed. The flowers, which can range from bright red to yellow, are arranged in a flat-topped raceme and appear on a tall, multi-branched stalk. The inflorescence is particularly striking and attracts a variety of pollinators, including birds and insects. While the seeds are reputedly poisonous, they are rarely a concern in cultivation.
Soap Aloe is valued for its drought tolerance, architectural form, and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a ground cover in xeriscapes. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-draining soil. Once established, it requires minimal care, though it is sensitive to frost and may need protection in colder climates. Aloe maculata is not typically grown for its culinary or medicinal properties, but its ornamental appeal is undeniable. Gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range and take care to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Soap Aloe is valued for its drought tolerance, architectural form, and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a ground cover in xeriscapes. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-draining soil. Once established, it requires minimal care, though it is sensitive to frost and may need protection in colder climates. Aloe maculata is not typically grown for its culinary or medicinal properties, but its ornamental appeal is undeniable. Gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range and take care to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Yellow, Orange, Red
- Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low, Very Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Rocky outcrops and open grasslands of Southern Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Zebra Aloe, Broadleaf Aloe, Broad-Leaved Aloe, Common Soap Aloe, White Spotted Aloe, Zabila, Soap Aloe, Atzavara, Balsemera, Curalotodo
Scientific Names: , Aloe maculata, Aloe commutata var. bicolor, Aloe picta subsp. major, Aloe saponaria var. saponaria,
GBIF Accepted Name: Aloe maculata All.