Aloe branddraaiensis Groenewald
Branddraai aloe
Aloe branddraaiensis is a compact aloe from the bushveld of Limpopo and border areas of Zimbabwe. Its grey-green leaves display well-distributed irregular white spots that make it visually attractive even outside the flowering season. It produces orange tubular flowers in winter on erect peduncles.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Compact to medium rosette, short stem |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy-loam to gravelly, well-drained soil |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Leaves 30–45 cm long, grey-green with irregular white spots on both surfaces, brown marginal teeth 3–4 mm.
ecoShort stem 10–20 cm in mature plants, clothed with leaf remnants.
ecoOrange tubular flowers 3.5 cm long in simple racemes on 50–70 cm peduncles. Flowering May–July.
ecoFibrous root system that explores crevices between gneiss and granite outcrops.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-loam to gravelly, well-drained soil
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate offsets with a knife in spring.
- 2 Allow to callus for 2 days.
- 3 Plant in gravelly substrate and water after a week.
- 4 They root in 5–7 weeks.
- 1 Sow in sandy mix at 22–26 °C.
- 2 Keep slightly moist under bright light.
- 3 Germinates in 2–4 weeks.
- 4 Transplant when 4–5 cm tall.
Greater sun exposure intensifies the white spots on the foliage.
Frequent watering that causes shallow roots and rot.
Every 3 years in spring
Low-nitrogen fertilizer (NPK 5-10-15), once in spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; contains anthraquinones.
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"The name refers to the South African locality of Branddraai in north-eastern Limpopo; the species was described by E.H. Groenewald in the mid-20th century."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.