Aloe excelsa — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Aloe excelsa

Aloe Excelsa

Updated · 11 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Aloe excelsa (also known as the Zimbabwe Aloe) is an arborescent aloe indigenous to southern Africa.

A note from PlantMom

Zimbabwe aloe shows strong resistance to disease and is less prone to illness when given normal care. It is also not highly vulnerable to most pests and diseases. Regarding maintenance, Zimbabwe aloe tolerates drought and can withstand extended intervals without watering. It requires little fertilizer and typically does not need pruning. Because of these traits, it is an appropriate plant for gardeners at any skill level, particularly for those who prefer to spend minimal time on plant care. It is well suited for people who are frequently away for long stretches and might forget to water their plants regularly.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Aloe Excelsa.

Light

Originating from dry regions, the Zimbabwe aloe thrives in full sun, its natural habitat marked by intense sunlight and sparse shade. It also tolerates partial sun, giving it some flexibility in how it grows.

Water

The Zimbabwe aloe is a drought-tolerant evergreen plant that thrives in arid regions. It requires minimal water, needing only to be watered once every three weeks. Although it effectively conserves water by retaining its leaves throughout the year, it can benefit from occasional rain showers for optimal growth.

Temperature

Zimbabwe aloe does best in warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to encourage growth and metabolic activity. It prefers plenty of sunlight, suitable moisture levels, and good ventilation. However, it can be damaged by temperatures that are too low and by overwatering. It’s important to maintain a balance and avoid excessively high heat and overly dry conditions as well.

Fertilizer

For Zimbabwe aloe, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer while the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before you begin feeding. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages blooms.

Pruning

The Zimbabwe aloe typically does not require pruning. However, you should remove only the dead leaves and spent flower stalks. Trim any orange or brown leaves to help redirect nutrients within the plant. For smaller plants, use a knife, and for larger ones, use pruning shears to maintain the plant's health.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Succulent
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Aloe
Family
Asphodelaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
91 cm
Mature Spread
91 cm
Leaf Color
Light Green, Gray
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Winter
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Spring
Native Area
Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Zimbabwe Aloe
PLATES
Aloe excelsa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Aloe excelsa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Aloe excelsa flower
PLATE 03 · flower
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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