The Aloe humilis, commonly known as the Spider Aloe, is a distinctive succulent native to South Africa, recognized for its compact rosette form. This low-growing plant displays pale blue-green leaves adorned with unique bumps and soft spines, offering year-round visual interest. The emergence of its unique flowers is a highly anticipated event.
The Spider Aloe Flower
The Spider Aloe produces showy, tubular flowers that emerge on tall, slender stalks, known as inflorescences. These flower spikes can reach up to 14 inches (35 cm) tall, extending significantly above the plant’s compact rosette. Individual flowers are 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) long and display vibrant shades of orange, red, or coral, sometimes with yellow tones.
The blooming season for Aloe humilis typically occurs from late winter into early spring, though some variations can extend flowering into summer. These colorful blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies in their natural habitat. The striking contrast between the plant’s spiky foliage and the smooth, bright flowers creates a captivating display.
Cultivating Spider Aloe for Blooms
Encouraging a Spider Aloe to bloom involves providing specific environmental conditions that mimic its native South African habitat. Bright, indirect light is beneficial for flowering, with some direct morning sun. Insufficient light can hinder bloom production, so placing it in a south or southwest-facing window indoors can be ideal. Outdoors, full sun to light shade is suitable, but too much direct, intense sun can cause leaf scorch.
Water deeply, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot and stress the plant, preventing it from flowering. Conversely, consistent underwatering also causes stress. The soil must be well-draining, such as a specialized succulent or cactus mix, often amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to ensure rapid drainage.
A cool, dry resting period during winter triggers spring blooming. While the plant is drought-tolerant, providing occasional water during this cooler period, ensuring the soil dries out completely between waterings, supports its health without encouraging vegetative growth. Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season in spring and summer, using a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 2-3 months. Over-fertilizing or fertilizing during dormancy can harm the plant or inhibit flowering.
Managing the Bloom Cycle
Once a Spider Aloe begins to flower, continuing its regular care routine, including appropriate light and watering, supports the bloom’s longevity. Maintaining these conditions helps ensure the vibrant display lasts as long as possible.
After the blooms have faded and the flower stalk has dried, deadhead the spent stalk. This involves cutting the stalk back near its base using clean, sharp tools. Removing the spent stalk redirects the plant’s energy back into foliage growth and overall plant health, preparing it for future blooms. Spider Aloes often produce offsets or “pups” around their base, which can be separated and repotted to propagate new plants after the main plant has flowered.