PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerate direct sunlight in cool seasons, avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm, arid conditions; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C to avoid leaf damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Thick, fleshy sword-shaped leaves with sharp marginal teeth; blue-green to grey-green foliage
- Flower: Tubular orange-red blooms on tall, branched inflorescences
- Stem: Short, compact basal stem supporting the rosette of leaves
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 5–7 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Diluted balanced succulent fertilizer once every 6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leaf discoloration and weak growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage without introducing pests or odorsPruning
- Remove dried, brown outer leaves at the base to maintain a tidy rosette shape
- Trim spent flower stalks close to the rosette after blooming to conserve plant energy
- Cut away soft, mushy leaves immediately to prevent the spread of rot to healthy foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; ingestion leads to gastrointestinal distress, depression, and tremors
Humans: Contains aloin and saponins; ingestion causes mild oral irritation, nausea, or diarrhea in humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens and indoor displays; traditional medicinal uses in native Nubian regions for minor skin irritations
