Kumara plicatilis image • Photo: Author Raffi Kojian• CC BY-SA 3.0
Kumara plicatilis is a striking succulent shrub or small tree growing 3-5 meters tall, characterized by its unique fan-like (distichous) arrangement of grey-green, tongue-shaped leaves with subtle marginal teeth. It features dichotomous branching patterns, corky fire-resistant bark, and dramatic winter blooms of bright pink flowers. Notable for its slow growth rate and adaptation to rocky slopes, it transitions from a multi-stemmed shrub to a small tree form over decades.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Kumara plicatilis
Light Requirements
Full sun
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Infrequent watering; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Humidity Needs
low humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
50-80°F (10-27°C); frost-sensitive
Native Climate
Native to Western Cape, South Africa (Fynbos ecoregion)
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-drained, sandy, slightly acidic soil
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Kumara plicatilis plants
Stem cuttings or seeds
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Western Cape, South Africa (Fynbos ecoregion)
slow
10-16 feet (3-5 meters) tall
Perennial
Pet safety unknown
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Late winter to early spring (August-October)
Flower Description
Masses of vibrant pink flowers arranged in racemes, appearing suddenly on mature plants
Fun Fact
Despite its common name 'fan-aloe' and former classification as Aloe, it belongs to the Kumara genus and shares its dichotomous branching with quiver trees.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Kumara plicatilis
Smothered by faster-growing plants, leading to stunted growth or death
Yellowing leaves, soft stems
Blackened or mushy leaves/stems after cold exposure
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Kumara plicatilis
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for flowering plants plants like your Kumara plicatilis
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