A large tree-like succulent to 4m in height, with very thorny silver-green leaves forming a robust, fleshy rosette. Rarely seen in the UK, spectacular yellow-orange flowers are held on almost horizontal branches off the main upright flower stem, during summer
2.5-4 metres
1.5-2.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow indoors in a container of peat-free, cacti potting compost or peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added horticultural grit. Water moderately when in growth; very sparingly when dormant. Apply a general liquid fertiliser monthly from May to August. Outdoors in warmer southern counties it can survive brief spells at -6°C if kept dry at the roots. See aloe cultivation for further advice
Propagate from seed or leaf cuttings or by separating plantlets from the base
No pruning required
May be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Generally disease-free