Aloe microstigma getting ready

These two snake-like, bud-laden beginnings of Aloe microstigma racemes are set for the customary winter celebrations. Not conical here as they often are. Up to five simple racemes may sprout from a leaf rosette in one blooming season.

Many sterile bracts, pale, short and broad are present below the lowest flower buds, spaced upon the dark brown-green peduncles. The bracts are about triangular in shape, decreasing in size up the stalks. Similar bracts subtend each of the flowers of the raceme as well.

The flower buds are not spaced at this time, compressed in their stout cylinders that hold so much yet to unfold. A. microstigma inflorescences are unbranched. They may grow to lengths of 60 cm to 80 cm (Frandsen, 2017; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Le Roux, et al, 2005; Van Wyk and Smith, 2003; Reynolds, 1974; Jeppe, 1969; iNaturalist).