Gonialoe variegata
Family: Asphodelaceae, formerly Xanthorrhoeaceae​
​Common Name: tiger aloe
Origin: Gonialoe variegata originates from the dry regions of South Africa and Namibia, growing under the shade of bushes in rocky environments.
Description: G. variegata is a stemless, rosette forming succulent that possesses a solitary or clumping form up to 12 inches tall The leaves are fleshy and arranged in 3’s, developing a distinctive boat-hull shape that is dark-green in coloring and striped white, with white toothed margins. During winter or early spring, mature plants 3-7 years and older will develop a raceme of reddish-pink flowers with green tips, possessing winged seeds.
  • Interesting Features:
    • When grown under dry conditions, the tiger aloe will develop red highlights, darkening the green flesh to brown.
    • As the succulent ages, the outer leaves will darken and shrivel, and can be removed if a tidy appearance is desired.
    • In 1993, Gonialoe variegata received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for outstanding value in cultivation.
  • Uses: G. variegata has been used in Africa to treat hemorrhoids and toothache.
    • Additionally, the tiger aloe is very popular in cultivation, especially in Europe, where it is grown for its winter flowers. The blooms attract hummingbirds, allowing G. variegata to become an excellent addition to a xeriscape or pollinator garden.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Low
    • G. variegata should be kept dry and only watered occasionally, especially during the winter months.
    • Although it is considered difficult to underwater this plant, tiger aloe must be given adequate irrigation if flowering is desired.
  • Soil: Gonialoe variegata requires well-draining succulent soil or regular potting mix supplemented with 25% perlite or pumice in order to thrive.
    • Additionally, a pH between 7.0 and 8.5 should be maintained, and the succulent should be planted in a medium to large pot with good drainage.
  • Lighting: Partial shade is tolerated, but this species thrives when given direct sun. However, do not expose to overly shady conditions, as this will lead to leggy growth.
  • Propagation: G. variegata can be propagated through seed, cuttings, and offsets, which appear readily from mature plants - simply remove the pups and repot once they are large enough. To grow from seed, germinate in a sandy, moist substrate, and maintain a temperature between 68 and 75°F.
  • Cold Tolerance: 20°F, USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: Being only partially frost tolerant, do not expose the tiger aloe to extreme temperatures.
    • However, if blooms are desired, move to a winter environment between 50-55°F to encourage flowering the following season.
    • Additionally, provide soil or liquid fertilizer in spring and autumn, and repot young plants as needed.

Sources:
  1. Llifle Encyclopedia of Succulents
  2. Garden
  3. Garden Tags
  4. Research Gate
  5. San Marcos Growers
  6. Candide Gardening
  7. Dave's Garden​
  8. Plant Care Today
  9. World of Succulents