Aloe mutans Reynolds
Variable-flowered aloe
Aloe mutans is a lesser-known species of the genus Aloe, described by Reynolds from material collected in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It is characterised by its floral variability, with tones ranging from yellow to red-orange depending on conditions and the individual's provenance. It grows on rocky slopes and edges of coastal forest.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Solitary rosette or with few offsets |
| Conservation Status | Not Evaluated (NE) — species uncommon in collections. |
| pH Target | 5.5–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy-loam, well-drained, with some organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate leaves, medium to dark green, with whitish marginal teeth.
ecoShort stem, compact to semi-erect rosette.
ecoFlowers of variable colour between yellow, orange and red, in conical racemes on scapes of 50–70 cm.
ecoModerately deep fibrous roots.
ecochevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-loam, well-drained, with some organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in a mix of sand and sterile substrate at 24–28 °C.
- 2 Keep substrate slightly moist.
- 3 Transplant when seedlings have 3–4 leaves.
- 4 Gradually acclimatise to full sun exposure.
Its floral variability makes it interesting for breeding programmes.
Should not be planted in areas with recurring frosts.
Every 2–3 years.
Liquid cactus fertilizer once in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Slightly toxic if ingested.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"The notable floral variability of this species has historically complicated its taxonomic delimitation. Controlled cultivation is recommended for phenotypic plasticity studies."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟢 HighVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
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.