Hedgehog Aloe Care

Keeping a cactus is an easy way to add some nature into a space. As a result, keeping succulents has caught on with people at home and offices alike. The common reasoning for this is that these plants are easy to maintain, provided you know how to care for them. While many cacti grow just like any other plant, there are some species that come with special requirements and conditions for their success. This applies more so for hedgehog aloe, which is a type of cactus that looks like a miniaturized hedgehog.

Read on to learn more about how to care for hedgehog aloe and see why they’re so adorable!

What is a Hedgehog Aloe?

A hedgehog aloe, commonly known as a prickly aloe, is a type of succulent plant. This plant belongs to the genus Aloe, which is a family of about 500 species of xerophytic or drought-tolerant plants.

The hedgehog aloe can grow as tall as 4 feet and has reddish-green leaves with white bristles. These bristles are actually modified stalks of the flowers which are often pollinated by bees. A hedgehog aloe is one of the easiest cacti to grow indoors, as long as you know how to take care of it.

What Conditions Does the Hedgehog Aloe Require?

A hedgehog aloe requires bright and filtered light. While direct sunlight is harmful to them, they do well in partially shaded areas. But make sure that your hedgehog aloe is not sitting in the dark, as they do need some light to grow.

While they do not need a lot of water, they do not appreciate it when you over-water them either. Also, keep in mind that if your hedgehog aloe has been in the same pot for more than a year, then it is probably time to repot it.

In terms of temperature, a hedgehog aloe can live in a range of 18°-27°C. Although they can survive in cooler temperatures, they will thrive in slightly warmer climates.

How to Care for a Hedgehog Aloe

Pruning: You can prune the lower leaves that are touching the soil to prevent rot. You can also snip off the flowers after they’ve bloomed or the buds if you want to make the plant grow faster.

Potting: It is best to repot your hedgehog aloe annually during the spring season. Make sure that the new pot has at least a 5-gallon capacity.

Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic materials like peat moss, perlite, and compost. Avoid using potting soil because it retains too much water.

Watering: Water your hedgehog aloe sparingly, just enough to keep the soil moist. If you notice that the soil is completely dry, then it's time to water it again.

When Should You Repot a Hedgehog Aloe?

After your hedgehog aloe has outgrown its current pot, you should move it to a larger pot with a wider diameter. Just make sure that the new pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Generally speaking, you should repot your hedgehog aloe every 1 to 2 years. This is necessary because the roots will have filled up the pot, making it harder for them to get the nutrients they need.

Conclusion

The hedgehog aloe is one of the easiest cacti to grow indoors. It needs a lot less attention than other succulents and it makes a great gift. If you know how to care for a hedgehog aloe, then you can grow it in almost any environment. Plus, if you keep these tips in mind, you will be able to keep your hedgehog aloe happy and healthy for a long time.