Aloe Donnie
Aloe 'Donnie'
Donnie
About this plant
Aloe 'Donnie' is a small, attractive succulent known for its thick, fleshy leaves that store water. It has a compact rosette shape and is popular as a houseplant due to its easy care and drought tolerance. It can produce orange-red flowers on tall stalks, adding ornamental value.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Aloe
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Higher classification
- Asparagales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Africa
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated as a houseplant worldwide, originally from arid regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 14–21 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18–27 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or cactus mix
Watering. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Feed lightly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant rests.
Aloe 'Donnie' is a tough succulent that needs little care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water only when the soil is dry. It grows slowly and rarely has problems if basic care is followed.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Offsets
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Thick, fleshy green leaves with spiny edges; tall flower stalks with tubular orange-red flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause stomach upset. Keep away from pets and children.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Aloe 'Donnie' is generally safe for most people, but some may experience mild skin irritation if they touch the sap. To avoid this, wear gloves when handling or pruning the plant. Keep it away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion, which can cause stomach upset.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Insufficient light may cause the plant to become leggy or pale. Pests are uncommon but watch for mealybugs or scale insects.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and flowers. Also valued for its drought tolerance and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune off dead leaves to keep the plant tidy. Repot every 2–3 years in fresh soil. Protect from frost and cold drafts.