Aloe pearsonii
Pearson's aloe
Spectacular aloe growing on cliffs and rocky outcrops on the border between South Africa and Namibia, especially in the Richtersveld. Forms impressive colonies on vertical rocky walls, with bright coral-red flowers that are one of the most striking sights of the Namaqualand desert.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Arborescent, colonial on rocky cliffs. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC); stable populations in the Richtersveld and Namibia. |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Rocky, very arid, mineral. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Fleshy, lanceolate leaves, bluish-green to grayish-green. Margins with robust reddish teeth. The surface can turn pink under intense water or light stress.
ecoErect, robust stem that can reach 1–2 m in height. It branches at the top with age, supporting multiple terminal rosettes.
ecoTubular coral-red to vivid red flowers in dense racemes. Flowering occurs in winter and early spring, providing spectacular contrast with the arid rocky landscape.
ecoPowerful root system with anchoring roots that penetrate deeply into rock crevices. Adapted to extract moisture from nocturnal condensation.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Rocky, very arid, mineral.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in a mix of coarse sand and mineral substrate (2:1).
- 2 Maintain 25–30 °C; bright indirect light.
- 3 Mist every 5–7 days until germination.
- 4 Transplant to individual pot when seedlings are 3 cm tall.
Excellent species for rock gardens in hot, dry climates.
Planting in moisture-retaining substrate; rot is the main risk.
Every 4–5 years; handle with extreme care.
No fertilization or very low dose of mineral fertilizer once a year in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Moderately toxic if ingested.
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"A. pearsonii colonies on vertical walls in the Richtersveld are one of the most extraordinary botanical spectacles of the African desert. The coral-red flowers contrast with the rust-red of the surrounding quartzite rocks."
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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.