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Asphodelaceae, Pillans |
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| Aloe pearsonii is named after Professor H.W. Pearson, the first director of the then National Botanical Gardens of South Africa. |
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| Common Names: |
- |
| Status: |
Vulnerable due to illegal collecting, mining activities and overgrazing. |
| Distribution: |
Namaqualand and Namibia, Aloe pearsonii is found in the hilly and mountainous areas of northern Namaqualand (Richtersveld) and Namibia. It grows in high, rocky places which are extremely arid. The summer temperature often exceeds 38 C. Aloe pearsonii occurs in a winter rainfall area (100mm). |
| Description: |
This is a very slow growing aloe, old plants may reach only 1.3 m in height. This a distinctive tall spp which forms a dense shrubby bush. The recuirved leaves form four ranks along the stem. The leaves turn dull red and become deflexed during a drought, the leaves turn green after rain. |
| Flower: |
The laterally produced inflorescence is 40 cm tall and may be simple or 2-3 branched. The raceme (15 cm) has yellow or brick-red flowers. |
| Flowering Time: |
The flowering period is January and February. |
Cultivation of Aloe pearsonii: |
| Light: |
Full sun. |
| Watering: |
Carefull watering required as Aloe pearsonii is susceptible to rot. Aloe pearsonii come from a very dry part of South Africa that gets very little rain usually less than 100mm per annuum. |
| Frost Protection: |
Frost protection is required. |
Picture: Aloe pearsonii, Richtersveld, Northern Cape, South Africa.
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