Aloe itremensis Reynolds
Itremo Aloe
Aloe itremensis is an endemic species of the Itremo Massif on the central plateau of Madagascar, where it grows on limestone and quartzite habitats between 1200 and 1800 m altitude. Its medium-sized rosettes bear grey-green spotted leaves and pink-red flowers that emerge in conical racemes. It is adapted to brief humid summers and dry, cool winters. It is a rare species of interest for specialised collectors and conservation programmes.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Solitary rosette or in small groups |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (IUCN VU) |
| pH Target | 7.0–8.0 |
| Type | Calcareous substrate with good permeability |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lance-shaped, grey-green with irregular pale spots, 20–35 cm long. Toothed margins with whitish to light brown teeth.
ecoShort to sub-acaulescent stem; the plant may occasionally produce basal offsets.
ecoTubular, pink to deep red, 2.5–3.5 cm, arranged in erect conical racemes on 40–60 cm peduncles. Blooms at the end of the dry season.
ecoFibrous root system adapted to shallow calcareous soils; roots with slight water storage capacity.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Calcareous substrate with good permeability
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in a slightly alkaline substrate (pH 7–7.5) at 20–24 °C.
- 2 Keep under bright indirect light and moderate humidity.
- 3 Carefully transplant after 3–4 months when seedlings are 5 cm tall.
Add lime or calcareous gravel to the substrate to mimic native conditions.
Acidic or peaty substrate that does not replicate the native calcareous pH.
Every 4–5 years; slow-growing species
Once a year in spring with slow-release mineral fertilizer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No specific toxicity data; treat with caution
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"A Malagasy species little studied outside its type locality. Cultivated specimens in European collections are scarce. Correct identification requires comparison with the type deposited in herbaria."
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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.