Aloe rugosifolia

Overview

Aloe rugosifolia occurs from southern Ethiopia to northern Kenya. It is characterized by finely rugose, pale-spotted leaves and a branched inflorescence 1.5–1.8 m tall bearing pink flowers. [1] [2]

Key characteristics

Growth form

Plants are solitary or form small groups. [2]

Leaves

Leaves are 20–40 cm long, finely rugose and pale-spotted. [2]

Inflorescence

The inflorescence is 1.5–1.8 m tall and branched. [2]

Flowers

The perianth is subclavate to cylindrical, 25–28 mm long and pink. [2]

Distribution

WCVP records southern Ethiopia to northern Kenya. Source accounts further report the Sidamo floristic region to northern Kenya and both sides of the Kenya–Ethiopia border. [1] [2] [3]

Classification and nomenclature

Accepted name: Aloe rugosifolia M.G.Gilbert & Sebsebe [1]
Basionym: Aloe otallensis Baker var. elongata A.Berger [1] [3] [4]

Etymology

The epithet rugosifolia refers to the rugose leaf surface. [2] [4]

References

World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP).
Sebsebe Demissew & Nordal, I. (2010). Aloes and Lilies of Ethiopia and Eritrea, 2nd ed.
Carter, S., Lavranos, J.J., Newton, L.E. & Walker, C.C. (2011). Aloes: The Definitive Guide. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. pp. 604–605.
Grace, O.M., Klopper, R.R., Figueiredo, E. & Smith, G.F. (2011). The Aloe Names Book. Strelitzia 28. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria. p. 135.