Aloe bosseri

This plant is not currently in production. This page is for informational use.

Aloe bosseri, commonly known as Bosser’s Aloe, is a soft-leaved Aloe endemic to western Madagascar, where it grows on limestone cliffs and steep rocky banks along the Manambolo River Gorge. It forms a loose, mildly clustering rosette with long, lax blue-green to yellowish-green leaves that may reach 28 inches in length. The leaves are finely lineate and have narrow whitish or pinkish margins with few or no teeth, giving the plant a relatively smooth appearance. Its erect or ascending inflorescences can reach about 28 inches tall and may be simple or branched, bearing lax racemes of red flowers with green tips. Closely related to Aloe viguieri, A. bosseri differs in its shorter flowers and generally less consistently branched inflorescences. It prefers very well-drained, rocky or mineral soil and should be allowed to dry between waterings, particularly during cool weather. Full sun to partial shade is suitable, although protection from intense afternoon sun may help prevent stress to its soft foliage. Hardy roughly in USDA Zones 9–11, it should be protected from prolonged cold and winter wetness. Its unusual open growth habit makes it well suited to containers, rock gardens, and specialist Aloe collections.

Parent plant sourced from IAS in 2023

Sources:

• Carter et al. (2011), p. 520.