Aloe Aristata Care

 Lace aloe produce orange/red flowers when it blooms. When the weather changes the leaves on the aloe tend to change colors as well. This is because the plant is stressed. Don't worry this doesn't mean your plant is unhealthy or is going to die. Lace aloe grow 6-9" tall and 1-2" wide. Lace aloe can easily be identified by the fine cilia growing from its leaves.

Sunlight

Lace aloe can survive in a variety of light situations. Morning sun, afternoon sun, or a spot where it receives shade in the afternoon will all work for lace aloe. If your lace aloe is going to be in a spot that receives afternoon sun it will need to be acclimated in order to not burn its leaves. If you are growing your lace aloe indoors a south facing window would be perfect for this plant.

Watering

Lace aloe is drought tolerant and prone to root rot. It does not need to be watered frequently and needs to dry out between watering. It will need to be watered more frequently during the summer. You can use your finger or a bamboo skewer to check if the soil is dry before watering. Lace aloe prefer the soak and dry method. 

Soil

Lace aloe needs a well draining soil that does not hold onto moisture. You can add chicken grit, pumice, or perlite to your soil to aid in drainage. I prefer to use a 2:1 mixture of chicken grit to succulent and cactus soil. If your soil holds onto moisture your aloe may suffer from root rot which can kill your aloe. Mature lace aloes can be fertilized in the spring and summer once per month. Do not over fertilize your lace aloe and avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves.

Propagation

Lace aloe can be propagated from pups/offsets. Wait until the pups reach a good size and then they can gently be removed from the mother plant. Once they are removed plant them in there own pot and wait about a week to water. 

Common problems

• Root rot

Over watering lace aloe can lead to root rot which can be deadly to your plant. If you suspect your lace aloe has root rot you may be able to save it by removing rotted roots and replanting in dry soil. 

• Wilting

Lace aloes will start wilting when they aren't being watered enough. If you notice your lace aloe wilting water it more frequently. 

• Pest

Mealy bugs and scales are two common pest that can lead to problems for you lace aloe. If you notice signs of pest you will need to isolate the infected plants and treat them. You can use neem oil to get rid of pest on your lace aloe.