Aloe eximia - 5ga

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Overview
Aloe eximia is a tree-forming Aloe species endemic to central Madagascar, where it thrives in seasonally dry tropical environments. This species is known for its tall, solitary trunk, gracefully recurved bright green leaves, and striking pendant inflorescences of pink flowers that open to milky white. Rare in cultivation, Aloe eximia is highly sought after by collectors due to its architectural form and distinct coloration. It has been assessed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss.  

Description
Aloe eximia develops a straight, unbranched trunk that reaches heights of 4 to 5 meters, occasionally up to 7 meters. The trunk is typically 8 to 14 centimeters thick, with some specimens reaching 20 centimeters in diameter. The leaves, numbering between 20 and 25, are long, narrow, and arching, measuring approximately 18 inches long and 2-2.5 inches wide. They are bright green with a reddish tinge under stress, featuring fine yellowish-white marginal teeth that are spaced 5 to 12 millimeters apart. The leaf sap is brownish-yellow, darkening as it dries. In its natural habitat, mature plants form a dense crown with older leaves drying into a skirt around the trunk.  

Flowering
Aloe eximia produces capitate, pendant racemes of densely packed pink flowers that fade to milky white as they open. The inflorescence emerges from the compact crown of leaves and is adapted for pollination by birds and insects. Flowering occurs seasonally, but specific bloom periods in cultivation are not well documented.  

Origin and History
This species is native to central Madagascar and was formally described in 2006 in Cactus World. The Latin epithet eximia means "excellent," referring to its notably tall growth habit. Due to its restricted range and habitat degradation, Aloe eximia is listed as Endangered under IUCN criteria. It is rarely seen in cultivation and remains a highly coveted species among Aloe enthusiasts.  

Care and Cultivation 
Aloe eximia requires full sun and well-draining soil, thriving in rocky, arid environments. It is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, especially in cooler months. This species benefits from occasional deep watering during the growing season but should remain dry in winter to prevent root rot. Given its large size and slow growth, it is best suited for spacious gardens or specialized collections. Protection from frost is recommended in non-tropical climates.  

Frost Tenderness 
This species is not frost-hardy and is best grown in USDA Zones 10-11. Cold temperatures below 40°F may damage its foliage, and it should be protected or grown in containers in cooler regions.  

Uses in the Garden
With its towering form and gracefully arching leaves, Aloe eximia serves as a striking focal point in xeriscapes and arid landscapes. It is particularly suited for collectors and botanic gardens due to its rarity. The pendant flowers attract pollinators, adding ecological value to its ornamental appeal.  

Parent plant sourced from IAS in 2023