Aloe aristata 'Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Lace Aloe, is a charming and sought-after succulent prized for its intricate rosettes of fleshy, toothed leaves adorned with striking variegation. This attractive cultivar adds a touch of elegance to any succulent collection with its unique patterns and relatively compact size.
 
Key Features of Aloe aristata 'Variegata' (Variegated Lace Aloe)
Compact Rosettes: Forms dense, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy leaves.
Toothed Leaf Margins: The edges of the leaves are lined with soft, white teeth or cilia, giving it a "lace-like" appearance.
Striking Variegation: Leaves display beautiful stripes or patterns of contrasting colors, typically creamy white or pale yellow against the green of the leaf. The variegation can vary in intensity and pattern.
Soft Bristles: The leaf tips are adorned with a soft, white bristle or awn.
Relatively Small Size: Typically remains a small to medium-sized succulent, ideal for containers.
Orange Flowers: Mature plants produce slender stalks bearing tubular, orange flowers.
 
Care for Your Aloe aristata 'Variegata' (Variegated Lace Aloe)
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the variegated leaves.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Aloe are drought-tolerant, and overwatering is a common cause of problems. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Aloe aristata 'Variegata' (Variegated Lace Aloe)
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and scale. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer).
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): The most common and easiest method. Mature plants often produce offsets or "pups" around the base. Carefully separate these when they have developed their own root systems.
Leaf Cuttings: Propagation from leaf cuttings is possible with Aloe, but it can be slow and less reliable than offsets. Allow the cut end to callus for several days before planting in well-draining soil.
Seed: Propagation from seed is possible but can be a slow process and may not result in plants with the same variegation as the parent plant.
 
Aloe aristata 'Variegata', the Variegated Lace Aloe, is a delightful and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its intricate rosettes and striking variegated foliage. Its unique appearance makes it a wonderful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.