Astroloba

Family. Asphodeloideae.

Origin. South Africa.

Description. Astroloba is a small genus of plants with a single stem on which rosettes of succulent triangular glossy leaves with sharp tips, 4 cm long and 2.5 cm wide are arranged in tiers or spirals. The genus is very closely related to Haworthias; astrolobas grow slowly. Often the plants have noticeable tubercles on the leaves that are dark green or white. There are species with pinkish leaves. The flowers are creamy-white with a green tint, on unusually short stalks, the inflorescences are often branched.

Height. 30 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

During the growing season, the temperature is above 18° C, in winter it drops to 13° C. 

Lighting

Partial shade, with shading from direct sunlight in summer. Some species take on a reddish tint when exposed to bright light.  

Care

Some species shed leaves at the bottom of the stem and look untidy.

Substrate

Well drained with acidic reaction. A mixture of 1 part peat, 1 part loam and 2 parts sand with the addition of perlite to improve drainage is suitable.

Feeding

Once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half the specified dosage.

Purpose

Very easy to care for, spectacular plants, suitable for succulent collectors. 

Flowering time

In the spring. The greenish-white flowers resemble Haworthia.

Air humidity

There are no special requirements; it can feel quite comfortable in rooms with central heating.

Soil moisture

Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water only once or twice a month. Plants that remain wet during this period will rot and die.

Transfer

Change the soil as needed, every 2-3 years.

Reproduction

By dividing mature plants in the spring and producing seeds. 

Pests and diseases

Pests that sometimes appear are mealybugs, spider mites and scale insects.