Aloe vanbalenii, often referred to as Van Balen’s or octopus aloe, is a succulent perennial aloe plant belonging to the Asphodelaceae family. A. vanbalenii is native to South Africa and is found growing in rocky soils. Aloe vanbalenii is found growing singularly and in large colonies when mature. The plant grows up to 2 to 3 feet in height and 3 to 4 feet in width. The leaves of A. vanbalenii are long and curled inward at the tips with a red to green epidermis depending on sun exposure. Each leaf is also lined with fleshy red spines on the margin that give off a cinnamon scent when damaged. A. vanbalenii blooms in the winter time to early spring with thin conical racemes that house tiny yellow to orange flowers that attract many beneficial pollinators. This species is grown as an ornamental plant for its drought tolerance and unique leaf shaping. Aloe vanbalenii grows best in well draining organic rich soil, sitting in full sun to partial shade. Water the plant adequately during summer and sparingly during winter. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Aloe vanbalenii seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown directly on top of the potting mixture and lightly covered with a thin layer of sand or potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 5 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.