Aloe dorotheae

Aloe dorotheae is a succulent plant of the family of grass tree plants (Asphodelaceae). It originally comes from Tanzania, where it grows in rocky, dry areas. Due to its striking coloring and attractive rosette form, Aloe dorotheae is a popular ornamental plant, which is particularly popular in succulent and cactus collections as well as in warm climates worldwide.

Morphology

Aloe dorotheae is a multi -year herbaceous plant that forms a compact rosette made of fleshy, lance -shaped leaves. These leaves reach a length of 20 to 30 centimeters and a width of about 5 to 7 centimeters. A striking feature of the plant is its intensive, variable leaf coloring, which ranges from green to orange to a strong red. The plant shows its striking red coloring, especially in full sun or in dry stress, which is why it is also known as a solarly. The leaves have small but sharp teeth on the edges, which give them an additional protective function.

Aloe dorotheae usually blooms in winter. It then forms a flower -shaped, tubular flowers that are up to 60 centimeters high with a grape -shaped flow, which are yellow to orange. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract various pollinators, especially birds and insects. The heyday therefore offers a valuable contribution to biodiversity in the habitats in which the plant is native.

Distribution and habitat

Aloe dorotheae can only be found in the wilderness in northeastern Tanzania, especially in the region of the Eastern Arc Mountains. It grows in rocky, dry areas at altitudes of around 500 to 1,000 meters. The region is characterized by a semi-arides to tropical climate, with hot, dry summers and a short rainy season. In their natural habitat, Aloe dorotheae is often exposed to extreme environmental conditions, including intensive sunlight and restricted water availability. These conditions have led to the development of adaptation strategies that enable the plant to survive in a dry, nutrient -poor environment.

Ecological adjustments

Aloe dorotheae has various adjustments that make you resistant in your dry environment. Like many succulents, it has thick, fleshy leaves that store water and thus enable survival during longer dry periods. The wax layer on the leaves reduces evaporation and protects the plant from extreme solar radiation.

The striking red color of the leaves, which is particularly evident in strong sunlight, serves as an additional protective mechanism. The red pigment caused by the plant substance anthocyan reduces the light absorption and protects the tissue from damage caused by UV radiation. This mechanism is particularly important because Aloe dorotheae grows in very sunny environments and can maintain your photosynthesis activity without risking tissue damage.

Cultivation and care

Because of its striking coloring and shape, Aloe dorotheae is a popular ornamental plant in succulent collections and as a garden plant in regions with a mild climate. It best thrives in well -permeable, sandy soils and needs a sunny to partially shaded position. Waterlogging must be avoided because it can lead to root rot. The irrigation should take place sparingly, whereby the plant needs less water in winter, as it then enters a rest phase.

The increase is usually via seeds or by offshoots that are formed at the base of the plant. Aloe dorotheae is relatively easy to care for, but it needs sufficient sunlight to show its characteristic red color. In warmer climates, it can grow outdoors all year round, while it should be cultivated as a potted plant in cooler regions and hibernated indoors.

Threat and protection

In her home country, Aloe dorotheae is considered to be endangered because her natural habitat is threatened by human interventions such as agriculture and settlement extensions. The plant is classified as endangered on the Red List of IUCN. Protective measures include the preservation of their natural habitats and the promotion of ex-situ cultivation in botanical gardens. The cultivation and distribution as an ornamental plant also helps to preserve the genetic diversity of this kind.