Aloe ferox

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Bitter Tree Aloe

 
Plant photo of: Aloe ferox
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Information by: George Hull MSN        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

Description

Cape aloe forms a dense 2'-3' clump of muted, green leaves borne on a tall trunk eventually to 12'. It has thick, wide fleshy leaves edged with prominent reddish-brown teeth. Dried leaves persist on the plant and offer sunburn protection. In late winter or early spring, the plant produces 3' candelabra spikes of intense orange red or even yellow tubular flowers. It grows in full sun to part shade. It suffers in reflected heat in the low desert. It is a South African native.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Succulent

 

Height Range

12-25'

 

Flower Color

Orange, Red

 

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

 

Leaf Color

Grey Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

 

Water

Low

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Spanish, Tropical

 

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Shape

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

 

Location Uses

Background, Patio, Raised Planter, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

Container, Mass Planting

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.