Aloe sladeniana

Not only are A. sladeniana endemic to Namibia, but they are also one of the smallest species of aloe in the world. Their leaves are green and decorated with small, white spots and similarly coloured thorns. They are also tightly bunched together. Flowering is usually from early December to late January and at times as late as the end of February.

Without some concentrated conservations efforts, the A. sladeniana may disappear from completely. Baboons are their number 1 enemy, destroying huge numbers of plants as they search for insects or for something to eat under rocks, where A. sladeniana grow. Other micro-habitats include under bushes and wedged between rocks, north and south of the Orange River. Strong winds are another threat, whipping off their tender flowers. Browsing animals complete the danger list. There are only 2 known colonies remaining in their natural habitat. The once abundant plant, which flourished in great numbers, has all but vanished.