Description
Aloe juvenna, commonly called Tiger Tooth Aloe, is a striking succulent native to East Africa. It features upright, lance-shaped leaves adorned with white spots and lined with small reddish-brown teeth resembling tiger teeth. This compact plant typically grows in rosette clusters and can reach heights of about 30 cm.
Growing Conditions
The Tiger Tooth Aloe prefers bright, indirect to part-sunlight conditions. While it can tolerate morning sunlight, avoid strong afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn. It grows well in a well-draining soil mix designed for succulents, ideally containing peat, sand, and perlite. Adding about 10% worm castings improves nutrient content and soil health. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to avoid root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
This succulent flourishes in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C but cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C. Since it is drought-tolerant, it does not require high humidity and adapts well to dryer indoor environments.
Feeding and Maintenance
Feed Aloe juvenna with a diluted, balanced fertiliser every 6-8 weeks during the active growth season from spring to early autumn. Regularly remove yellow or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy. This succulent is easy to care for and requires minimal pruning.
Propagation
Propagation is straightforward by separating offsets or pups growing near the base. Allow offsets to dry and callous for several days before planting in well-drained soil. Leaf cuttings are less reliable but can root with patience.
Pest and Disease Control
Aloe juvenna can occasionally attract pests like mealybugs and aphids. Neem oil or Efekto Garden Gun insecticide effectively manages these pests. Overwatering increases susceptibility to fungal infections, which can be treated with Efekto Kumulus WG fungicide applied at early detection.
Water Preferences
While Aloe juvenna tolerates borehole water with a pH close to 5.7, it thrives best when watered with rain or distilled water to prevent mineral accumulation. Maintaining a regular but sparing watering schedule supports its succulent nature.
Pot shown is for presentation only and is not part of the purchase.
