Gasteraloe 'Royal Highness'
Family
Asphodelaceae
Origin
Eastern Cape, South Africa
Description
Gasteraloe 'Royal Highness is a rare intergeneric hybrid of cross between Gasteria batesiana and Aristaloe aristata, formerly known as Aloe aristata. It is ornately decorated with a dense smattering of raised white dots & grows up to 5-40 cm in height. It has short pointed and triangular leaves that make the plant look even more attractive.Moderate stress from bright light and drought can induce flushing of orange and red tones.
Gasteraloe royal highness blooms with pale coral-pink round rosettes.
Environment
Gasterhaworthia plants grow best in moist soil. Royal highness needs light shade to thrive. Direct sun exposure affects the growth of these plants. They do need great drainage and infrequent water to prevent rot.
These decorative little plants can be grown in interesting containers such as tea cups and even miniature baby shoes. Make sure the container had adequate drainage. If it doesn't, it might be a good idea to pop the plant out of its container and add a layer of gravel to the bottom to reduce the wicking action of the soil above.
Propogation
Gasteraloe is easily propagated by the removal of offshoots or by leaf cuttings in spring or summer. To propagate by leaf cuttings, remove a leaf and let it lie for about one month, giving the wound time to heal. Then lay the leaf on its side with the basal part buried in the soil. This leaf should root within a month or two, and small plants will form at the leaf base. They can also grown from seed.
Landscape Use
Suitable for Container, Rock Garden & Xeriscaping