Mitre Aloe (Aloe perfoliata)

Mitre Aloe

Aloe perfoliata

Fleshy overlapping leaves form a geometric rosette, a desert sculptural gem. Succulent perennial; common name: Mitre Aloe.

Full sun
0.5–1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; requires direct sunlight for compact rosette growth; tolerate bright indirect light indoors
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Watering Water deeply only when the entire soil medium is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, dry conditions; tolerate brief light frost down to 5°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 5°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Triangular fleshy leaves with sharp marginal teeth, overlapping at the base to clasp the stem
  • Flower: Tubular orange-red flowers arranged in dense racemes on tall, upright stalks
  • Stem: Short, thick stem partially obscured by overlapping leaf bases
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when soil is fully dry, approximately every 7–10 days

Fertilization

Diluted low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once monthly. Do not fertilize in autumn or winter when growth slows

Eggshell powder top-dress:Grind dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface every 3 months to improve drainage and add calcium
Pruning
  • Trim dried, brown leaf tips with clean, sharp scissors to maintain a neat appearance
  • Cut spent flower stalks at the base after blooming to redirect energy to pup growth
  • Thin overcrowded offset pups in spring to improve airflow and prevent overcrowding
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains saponins that may cause gastrointestinal distress and lethargy

Humans: Contains saponins; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset; skin irritation in sensitive individuals

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens and container displays; diluted sap may have mild topical soothing properties (avoid ingestion)