Mako Aloe

Mako Aloe (Aloe hybrid 'Mako') is a clumping rosette succulent that grows 20 to 30cm tall and about 30cm wide. Its low, arching, fleshy green leaves taper to a point and are toothed along the edges like a shark's jaw, which suits the name. It is easy care and makes plenty of offsets.

Why you'll love it

• A clumping habit. It spreads by pups, so a single plant becomes a cluster that fills a border.
• Offsets to share. The offsets can be potted on and shared with neighbours.
• Arching leaves. The low, arching form gives a relaxed, sculptural shape that suits modern gardens.
• Poor soil is fine. It is recommended for dry, poor soils and hot, sunny borders.
• Pot or garden. It does well in pots indoors and out, and in waterwise garden borders.

Where it works best

Hot sunny borders. Plant 40cm apart in a row and let the clumps close up over a couple of seasons. It copes with dry, poor soil where other plants struggle.

Waterwise gardens. Pair it with other aloes and succulents on a gravelled bed where drainage is sharp.

Pots indoors and out. A wide, shallow pot suits its low form. In a bright room it will hold its shape well.

Growing Mako Aloe in Australia

Position and climate. Plenty of sun suits it best. It grows in subtropical, warm temperate, Mediterranean and arid gardens. Keep it clear of frost, using a pot that can be moved under cover where winters are cold.

Soil. Plant in gritty, free draining soil in pots or in the garden. A raised bed or mound helps on heavy clay.

Water and feed. Water weekly through the warmer months and cut back in winter. Feed once in spring with an organic liquid fertiliser at half strength.

Pups and tidying. Mako clumps freely, so thin the offsets every couple of years. Pot them on or share them, and pull away dead leaves from the base.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Mako Aloe as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. The tube is a small rosette that forms a clump over time. Plant it in a sunny, gritty bed and water lightly while it settles. Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse our aloe range
• Aloe care guide
• Drought tolerant plants
• Rockery plants

Common questions

How do I use the pups?

Lift them with a sharp spade or trowel when they have a few roots, and plant them in free draining mix. They grow into new clumps.

Can it handle poor soil?

Yes. It suits dry, poor soils and hot, sunny borders, as long as the soil drains freely.

Is it toxic to dogs and cats?

Yes, if chewed. Keep Mako where pets cannot reach it, such as a raised pot or a bed they do not use.