The Sea Dragon Succulent (Aloe juvenna) features distinctive stacked, tooth-like leaves, often with reddish tips, resembling a dragon’s scales. This compact, clumping plant is popular among succulent enthusiasts due to its unique form and undemanding nature.
Caring for Your Sea Dragon Succulent
Light Requirements
Sea Dragon Succulents thrive in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window provides ideal conditions, offering gentle morning sun. While they tolerate some direct morning light, protection from harsh afternoon sun is crucial to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering Practices
Water using a “drench and dry” approach, allowing the soil to completely dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months as the plant’s activity slows.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. These mixes allow water to pass through quickly, preventing saturation. A pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent waterlogging and maintain root health.
Temperature and Humidity
Sea Dragon Succulents prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). Average household humidity is sufficient, as they do not require high moisture. Protect the plant from frost, as freezing temperatures cause significant damage.
Fertilizing Needs
Fertilize lightly and infrequently during the active growing season (spring and summer). A diluted succulent fertilizer supports healthy growth. Once or twice a year is sufficient, as Aloe juvenna has low nutrient requirements.
Propagating Sea Dragon Succulents
Sea Dragon Succulents are easily propagated. The most common method involves separating offsets, or “pups,” which emerge at the base of the parent plant. Remove these plantlets with a clean, sharp tool.
After separation, allow the offset to air dry for a few days until a protective callus forms on the cut end, preventing rot. Plant the callused offset in dry, well-draining succulent soil, waiting about a week before watering.
Stem cuttings are another viable propagation option. Take a healthy stem section, allow it to callous, and then plant it similarly.
Addressing Common Challenges
Overwatering causes mushy leaves and stem rot, often from excessive frequency or poor drainage. Adhere to the “drench and dry” method, allowing soil to fully dry between waterings, to prevent this.
Underwatering causes shriveled or thin leaves, indicating insufficient moisture. Remedy this condition with a thorough watering until drainage occurs.
Insufficient light causes etiolation, resulting in stretched, pale, and sparse growth. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect light. Gradual acclimatization helps prevent shock.
Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can affect Sea Dragon Succulents. Use a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol for mealybugs, and neem oil for spider mites.