Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: bontaalwyn, soap aloe, white spotted aloe, Ingcelwane, Icena

Family: Asphodelaceae

Distribution: South Africa, Zimbabwe

Habitat: Coastal climates from the Cape peninsula to the east coast, but also occurring inland to the Drakensberg foothills

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

National red list: Least Concern

Life form: Succulent plant

Comments: This species is widespread, generally preferring coastal climates from the Cape peninsula to the east coast, but also occurring inland up to the Drakensberg foothills. This wide distribution indicates a tolerance of varying soil types and moisture regimes. The sap from its leaves has been traditionally used as a substitute for soap. Its bright reddish flowers are a rich source of nectar and attract sunbirds. The species name “maculata” means spotted, referring to the spotted leaves.