Aloinopsis malherbei is a species of succulent plant, also known as the giant jewel plant. It is native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa, especially the area around Calvinia and Loeriesfontein. The plant produces a thick tuber and produces yellow flowers. Unlike other Aloinopsis, it only has tubercles (bumps) at the leaf tips.
Giant jewel plant has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It tends to develop illnesses when humidity is high and is liable to root rot during dormancy. Regarding care needs, Giant jewel plant tolerates drought but requires more water in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Giant jewel plant is appropriate for growers with some experience, but it can be challenging to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially well suited to people who can dedicate time to its care in the winter months.
How to keep Aloinopsis Malherbei.
Light
Originating from dry areas, Giant jewel plant grows best in full sun, its natural habitat marked by intense sunlight and very little shade. It will also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in its growth.
Water
The giant jewel plant is well-suited for arid environments due to its excellent water storage capabilities, making it drought-tolerant. It needs watering only every 2 to 3 weeks and is commonly grown in containers. As an evergreen, it maintains its water-storing leaves throughout the year, which makes it perfect for indoor cultivation where humidity levels can be controlled.
Temperature
Although the Giant jewel plant can tolerate some heat, it mostly flourishes and grows in cooler seasons, becoming dormant during summer. In hot summer temperatures, shade should be provided to avoid scorching from intense sunlight. Watering ought to be reduced or paused during the hottest part of the year to prevent root rot. The plant shows vigorous growth in winter and spring, and as long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For the Giant jewel plant, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are adequate. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer, when the plant is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes blooming.
Pruning
To keep the giant jewel plant in good shape, prune any redundant or overly dense branches in both the spring and autumn. Use tools like knives and scissors for this task. For propagation, cut thick stems that have 5-6 leaves. Apply sulfur powder to the cut wound and allow it to heal before planting. Use slightly moist soil for planting the cuttings.
Pot & Repot
When repotting a Giant jewel plant, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, brush off excess soil, and set it at the same depth. Hold off watering for a few days to allow any root damage to heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Aloinopsis
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 5 cm
- Mature Spread
- 4 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- South Africa
