Aloe pratensis |
Asphodelaceae |
Aloe pratensis is easily identified by the presence of the large papery bracts on the peduncles and the presence of the large white base frrom which the marginal teeth and spines are borne.
The specie name 'pratensis' means 'growing in a meadow' which refers to its habitat. |
| Common Names: |
- |
| Status: |
Unknown, but increased collection and habitat destruction due to agricultural development could place this specie under pressure. |
| Distribution: |
From Grahamstown in the south to Cathedral Peak and Champagne Castle on the eastern side of the Drakensberg. |
Description of Aloe pratensis: |
| Stem: |
Up to six heads, with each head up to 200mm in diameter, form on stems that are not visible. |
| Leaves: |
Leaves are broad and can be up to 150mm in length and up to 50mm wide, they are grey in colour with distinct longitudinal lines. Upper leaf surfaces are smooth while the lower leaf surfaces have brown thorns rising from a whte base. The leaf margins are armed with reddish-brown triangular thorns that are up to 5mm in length, these thorns arise from a white base.. |
Flower Description : |
| Inflorescence: |
Up to 4 simple inflorescences are borne from the rosette, each one being up to 600mm in length. Large papery bracts are present along the length of the peduncle. |
| Flower: |
Raceme is 200mm in length and 100mm wide, buds tightly packed and covered with bracts. Flowers are pinkish-red in colour and up to 40mm in length. Flowers form a cylindrical shape that is slightly wider in the middle. stamen and style only slightly protrude form the mouth of the flower.
Flowers and ripe fruit can be found on the same raceme. |
| Flowering Time: |
Flowering occurs from June to October. |
Cultivation of Aloe pratensis: |
| Light: |
- |
| Watering: |
- |
| Frost Protection: |
- |
| Notes: |
Aloe pratensis does not thrive in cultivation. |
Picture: Please contact me if you have images I can use. |
