Synonyms:

No synonyms are found for this species name.

Habitat:

Aloe juvenna is native to Kenya although, previously, it was deemed to be native to South Africa.

Description:

Aloe juvenna forms clusters of 5 to 6 branches that can grow up to 40 to 45 cm in length and are 8-10 cm wide. The previously described specimens of the species (A. squarrosa) were notably shorter. This small aloe has upright or spreading stems that branch out. It spreads widely and can cover the ground like a carpet. The stems at the base split and can grow to about 10-30 cm in height.
Its leaves are triangular, resembling a rosette, and have a bright green hue. They are adorned with abundant white spots, but when exposed to sunlight, they darken, turning brown. Along the edges, there are 4 to 5 mm long white spines. They grow in small clusters that might look a bit fuzzy from a distance, but they’re actually not.
The leaves also feature a concave section, and in the summer, the tips may dry out and curl. The inflorescence typically consists of a single upward-pointing spike, reaching a height of about 25 cm. The racemes, or flower clusters, are 10 cm long and 8 to 10 cm in diameter.
In the wild, this plant usually produces red flowers and tends to bloom during the winter months. When it blooms, it produces bright coral-pink flowers. The flowering stems are usually simple, not branching.

Cultivation:

Caring for Aloe juvenna is a fulfilling and straightforward endeavor. This plant flourishes whether potted or in a rock garden, particularly in warm areas. It’s robust, enduring both sunlight and drought, and can also thrive in partial shade. Its growth tends to be most active during the fall and winter months, and it readily multiplies.
In terms of soil, it favors a well-draining mixture. When planted outdoors, it prefers gritty soil enriched with pea gravel over nutrient-rich loamy soil. Repotting is only necessary if you observe roots emerging from the pot’s drainage holes.
Feeding Aloe juvenna should be done once per season using a water-soluble foliage houseplant fertilizer, diluted as instructed. For outdoor plants, trim old stems close to the ground in the spring and apply a modest amount of general-purpose fertilizer. Be sure to water thoroughly to ensure the fertilizer reaches the roots.
When it comes to watering, it’s best to be conservative, as excessive moisture can lead to rot. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, allowing the root ball to fully dry out before the next watering. While this plant can endure periods of drought, it generally benefits from regular, moderate watering. In winter, it requires very little water, as its succulent leaves store ample moisture for an extended period. Outdoor plants rarely require additional watering, except during extended dry spells.
Aloe juvenna thrives in full sun to light shade and appreciates good air circulation. While it enjoys sunny spots, in warmer climates, it’s wise to shield it from excessive sun exposure, as it’s not highly heat resistant. It’s imperative to safeguard this plant from frost, as it’s sensitive to freezing temperatures.

Propagation:

The propagation technique used is mainly the replantation of cuttings. Sowing, although possible as well, is instead rarely used.

Curiosity:

There was a common belief that Aloe juvenna was introduced to Zimbabwe, likely from South Africa, leading many to consider it an “imported” plant. This notion gained support from the fact that it was identified as tetraploid, meaning it has double the usual number of chromosomes, a trait commonly seen in succulents from South Africa. However, in 1982, a significant discovery was made in a remote area of Kenya, near the Tanzanian border, where a population of Aloe juvenna was found. This crucial finding solidified the understanding that this species is indeed indigenous to Kenya.

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