Aloinopsis malherbei - Giant Jewel Plant

Morphological Characteristics

Aloinopsis malherbei is a compact, rare succulent known for its eye-catching tuberous root system and unique, jewel-like leaf structure. It forms low-growing rosettes or mats of thick, tongue-shaped leaves that are gray-green to olive and densely covered with fine white tubercles, giving the plant a glistening, textured surface.

The leaves often have blunt tips with translucent dots and margins, adding to their ornamental charm. Mature specimens typically remain under 8 cm (3 inches) tall but can spread outward slowly with time.

From late winter to early spring, it produces large, daisy-like yellow flowers with a central cluster of stamens, often appearing oversized in proportion to the body. Blooms open in the afternoon sun and close by evening.

Growth Habits

Aloinopsis malherbei is a winter-growing, drought-adapted succulent that enters dormancy during the hot summer. It thrives in rocky, mineral-rich soils with excellent drainage and prefers cool, dry growing seasons.

Due to its compact form and fleshy roots, it is ideal for deep pots or rock crevice-style arrangements.

Maintenance Points

• Lighting: Requires bright light to full sun. Indoors, place near a south- or west-facing window. Outdoors, protect from extreme heat.

• Watering: Water during the winter growing season (fall to early spring). Keep almost completely dry during summer dormancy.

• Soil: Needs fast-draining, gritty mix with high mineral content. Use pumice, coarse sand, or crushed lava rock.

• Temperature: Prefers cooler temps during growth (10–25°C / 50–77°F). Not frost-hardy—protect below 5°C (41°F).

• Fertilization: Light feeding with low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once or twice during the active season.

• Handling: Avoid overhandling to prevent root damage. Deep pots are best to accommodate its tuberous base.

• Pest Resistance: Generally trouble-free with good airflow. Susceptible to rot if overwatered in summer.

Display & Use

Aloinopsis malherbei is highly suited for:

• Deep bonsai-style clay or stone pots

• Winter-grower specialty collections

• Rock gardens with sharp drainage

• Companion planting with Lithops, Titanopsis, or Pleiospilos