Aloe mirabilis Haw.
Wonderful aloe
Aloe mirabilis is a compact rosette succulent native to the Breede River Valley in the Western Cape of South Africa. It grows on rocky outcrops and stony slopes, forming dense rosettes of grey-green leaves with marginal teeth. Its red-orange flowers appear in erect racemes and attract sunbirds and local nectar-feeding birds.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Compact rosette, solitary or with few offsets |
| Conservation Status | Near Threatened (NT) — populations limited to rocky outcrops in the Breede River Valley. |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy, rocky, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate, grey-green leaves with lighter marginal teeth. Surface has small white spots on young plants that fade with maturity.
ecoShort or nearly absent stem, compact rosette at or slightly above ground level.
ecoTubular red-orange flowers arranged in simple racemes on erect floral stems of 40–60 cm.
ecoFibrous and shallow root system, adapted to rocky and well-drained soils.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy, rocky, very well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate basal offsets with a clean knife.
- 2 Allow the cut to dry for 2–3 days.
- 3 Plant in well-drained sandy substrate.
- 4 Water sparingly until new growth appears.
Use a pot with wide drainage holes.
Overwatering causing root rot.
Every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container.
Diluted cactus fertilizer once in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Moderately toxic to pets if ingested.
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"Species with restricted distribution and high ornamental value. Its adaptation to poor, stony soils makes it ideal for Mediterranean xeric gardens."
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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.