Aloe distans, or Finger Aloe, is a distinctive succulent. It features long, slender, finger-like leaves that often develop a reddish tint in ample sunlight. Native to South Africa’s coastal regions, it thrives in environments mimicking its natural habitat. Its succulent nature makes it a low-maintenance option for indoor and outdoor cultivation in suitable climates.
Caring for Finger Aloe
Finger Aloe thrives in bright, direct sunlight. For vibrant coloration and compact growth, it requires at least six hours of direct sun daily. While it can tolerate some partial shade in hot climates, insufficient light leads to greener, less robust growth. The intensity of its reddish hues indicates its light exposure.
Watering Finger Aloe requires the “soak and dry” method. As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves and is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Adjust frequency seasonally, requiring less water in cooler winter months when growth slows.
Well-draining soil and proper potting are essential for Finger Aloe. Use a commercially prepared cactus or succulent mix, or a custom sandy loam blend. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. An appropriately sized pot also helps the soil dry efficiently between waterings.
Finger Aloe prefers warm temperatures, thriving between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Established plants tolerate brief frosts down to 25°F (-4°C), but sustained cold causes damage. Given its succulent nature, it has low humidity requirements and performs well in dry indoor or arid outdoor conditions. Excess humidity can contribute to fungal issues, especially with overwatering.
Propagating Finger Aloe
Propagate Finger Aloe using offsets, or pups, which emerge from the parent plant’s base. Gently remove these plantlets by twisting or cutting them cleanly, ensuring each has some roots. After separation, air dry pups in a warm, dry place for several days until the cut end forms a callus. Once callused, plant them in a well-draining succulent mix, keeping the soil slightly moist until new growth appears.
Stem cuttings also offer a method for propagating Finger Aloe. Select a healthy stem section and make a clean cut with a sharp, sterile knife or pruners. Similar to pups, allow the cut end to callus for three to seven days before planting. This callusing prevents rot. Plant the callused cutting in a gritty, well-draining medium.
For both offsets and stem cuttings, provide bright, indirect light during initial establishment. Direct, intense sunlight is too harsh for newly planted, unrooted sections. Once new plants develop a robust root system and show active growth, gradually introduce them to brighter light. Consistent, light watering, allowing soil to dry between applications, supports healthy root development.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Mushy or rotting stems and leaves in Finger Aloe indicate overwatering. Too much water suffocates and decays roots, causing a soft, decaying appearance. To address this, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries completely between waterings. If root rot is severe, repot into fresh, dry soil after trimming affected roots.
Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems with widely spaced leaves or pale coloration, points to insufficient light. Finger Aloe stretches to find more light when it is not receiving enough. Move the plant to a brighter location with adequate direct sunlight for a more compact, vibrant form. Gradual acclimation to increased light prevents sunburn.
Shriveled or crispy leaves signal under-watering or exposure to extreme heat and direct sun. While drought-tolerant, prolonged periods without water cause leaves to thin and dry. Adjust the watering schedule for consistent moisture, adhering to the soak and dry method, to rehydrate the plant. Providing slight shade during the hottest parts of the day protects against sunburn.
Finger Aloe can fall victim to common succulent pests like mealybugs. These small, white, cottony insects cluster in leaf axils or on the underside of leaves, feeding on plant sap. Dab pests directly with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat applications every few days until the infestation is eradicated.