Aloe lettyae Reynolds
Letty's aloe
Aloe lettyae is an aloe that forms large clusters of rosettes on rocky outcrops and hillsides of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, South Africa. It produces intense orange-red flowers that attract nectarivorous birds. It was named after Cythna Letty, a South African botanist and illustrator.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Clustering short-stemmed rosettes |
| Conservation Status | Least concern; stable populations in protected areas. |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy-gravelly, well drained. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lance-shaped blue-green leaves with pale spots on the underside, margins with brown teeth.
ecoShort stems that produce lateral offsets, forming dense colonies.
ecoBright orange-red tubular flowers in erect conical racemes. Blooms in winter to early spring.
ecoRobust fibrous root system, adapted to rocky soils.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-gravelly, well drained.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate offsets with their own roots in spring.
- 2 Allow cut to dry for 1–2 days.
- 3 Plant in sandy-gravelly substrate.
- 4 Water sparingly until established.
Excellent for rock gardens and slopes.
Overwatering in summer.
Every 2–3 years in pot; prefers open ground.
Diluted succulent fertilizer once a year in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Moderately toxic if ingested.
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"Species dedicated to Cythna Letty (1895–1985), who illustrated numerous South African plants for the Department of Agriculture."
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Scientific Integrity
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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.