Aloinopsis- Small Genus Of Little Pot Cuties

Succulents are the perfect addition to any arrangement, both indoors and in an outside garden. We are already familiar with their variety of shapes and colors. However, when you stumble on an amazing genus, it’s hard to pick a favorite species. That’s why we present a whole genus of Aloinopsis today. These beautiful, mat-forming pot fillers will look great in your home as well as a gem of your outdoor arrangement. All of them has very similar growing needs, similar shape, and the same beautiful blooming habits.

Aloinopsis– When Cold Meats Color

This is a genus of ice plants. They are native to Eastern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa, but some of the species occur in Nothern Cape Province. Aloinopsis is a very popular genus among succulent lovers and collectors. The name of the genus stands for “similar to Aloe”. Since the genus is pretty small, all of their features appear similar to almost the same.

Aloinopsis are stemless and they grow low to the ground, forming a charming, rich mat. Small rosettes are made of textured, rough-surfaced leaves that are somewhat spoon-shaped. Aloinopsis has deep-green to fresh, bright green leaves. Rosettes can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall and up to 12 inches (30 cm) wide. Therefore, these succulents are perfect for covering large spaces. They are also somewhat fast growers, so they will fill out the pot or a garden arrangement pretty quickly. Aloinopsis are winter-growers and bloomers. From winter to early spring, they will send out beautiful, aster-like flowers in bright pink and yellow striped with deep red. Flowers are opening up in the afternoon, bringing beautiful scent in the air and closing up again after dark.

Grow and Care Tips

Aloinopsis are extremely tolerant of low temperatures. They can withstand down to 23°F (-5°C). They only need to stay dry when temperatures drop significantly. These succulents are not fans of very high temperatures and extremely hot weather. Aloinopsis are summer-dormant succulents. You should water them only when the soil is completely dried out. In the summer, cut the water out completely, since they are sensitive to overwatering.

When it comes to light conditions, Aloinopsis will appreciate bathing in full sun as long as the heat is not too harsh on the leaves. These succulents will also show off their best, brightest colors only if they have a lot of light. However, during the summer months, it’s smart to protect them in the hottest periods of the day. You can add some shade net in order to filter damaging UV lights, but still, let your Aloinopsis sunbath.

Aloinopsis need well-draining soil in order to thrive. In order to plant these succulents in perfect soil, you should mix some regular succulent potting soil with some sand, perlite or other natural chunkier material, like little rocks. If you’re making an Aloinopsis mat in your garden, make sure that the soil is highly porous. Also, to boost your plants and encourage them to bloom, you can add some mild fertilizer once during the growing season.

As it comes to pests, this is not the most tolerant succulent genre out there. Aloinopsis are highly sensitive to red spider mites and root rotting from fungi infections.

Propagation

Aloinopsis can be propagated from seeds and cuttings. Getting a new plant from the seed may take a while and its best to collect them and prepare for planting during the winter. Propagating from cuttings is easier and you’ll have new plants mush sooner. Just use a sterile knife to cut the leaf from the rosette, let it callus fro a day or two, put it on a well-draining soil and water whenever the soil is dry. When the cutting is ready, plant it in a fresh potting mix and you’re good to go.

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