Troubleshooting
Tiger Tooth Aloe problems — and how to fix them
Tiger Tooth Aloe (Aloe juvenna) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leggy, floppy stems
In low light the stacked leaves spread apart and stems stretch and topple. Give bright direct light to keep growth tight; over-long stems can be beheaded and re-rooted.
Stem and root rot
Overwatering, especially in cool weather, rots the stems from the base. Let the soil dry fully and use sharply draining gritty mix.
Loss of red colouring
The attractive coppery flush only appears under strong light and mild stress. Insufficient sun leaves the plant plain green; increase light to restore colour.
Mealybugs
White cottony pests hide between the tightly stacked leaves. Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol and inspect the crowded leaf joints regularly.
Prevent tiger tooth aloe problems before they start
Most tiger tooth aloe issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for tiger tooth aloe in general rather than its problems? Read the full tiger tooth aloe care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Tiger Tooth Aloe problems — FAQ
Why is my tiger tooth aloe leggy, floppy stems?
In low light the stacked leaves spread apart and stems stretch and topple. Give bright direct light to keep growth tight; over-long stems can be beheaded and re-rooted.
Why is my tiger tooth aloe stem and root rot?
Overwatering, especially in cool weather, rots the stems from the base. Let the soil dry fully and use sharply draining gritty mix.
Why is my tiger tooth aloe loss of red colouring?
The attractive coppery flush only appears under strong light and mild stress. Insufficient sun leaves the plant plain green; increase light to restore colour.
Why is my tiger tooth aloe mealybugs?
White cottony pests hide between the tightly stacked leaves. Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol and inspect the crowded leaf joints regularly.