AVERAGE SIZE (H) x (W): 2m x 1m
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 5m
FLOWERING TIME:   J F M A M J J A S O N D
FRUITING TIME:   J F M A M J J A S O N D
An attractive, single-stemmed aloe with thick rosettes of thorny succulent leaves and tall stunning spikes of tubular orange-red flowers that are carried on showy flowerheads.
ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS:Aloe ferox is rich in nectar and attracts bees, sunbirds, mousebirds and barbets.
The dry leaves on the lower parts of the stem often provide homes for small insects. These in turn, attract insectivorous birds and lizards who feast on them.
NATURAL HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:
Occurs in a variety of habitats from mountain slopes, rocky places and flat open areas.
MAINTENANCE:
Low maintenance.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
This aloe species is remarkably adapted to tolerate and flourish in extremely dry areas of the Karoo as well as wetter climates in the Eastern Cape, so it is best to grow it in a garden low-moderate water application.
GARDEN THEMES:
Bushveld, country, formal, grassland, rockery, succulent
LANDSCAPING USES:
A magnificent focal plant to add to a rockery.
This makes an attractive plant for a water-wise garden.
FLOWERS:
The inflorescence is branched into 5-12 erect racemes. The flowers are usually bright orange-red, but can also be found in bright red, yellow, and white forms.
The leaves are broad, dull green to grey-green and turn red from the tips in drought conditions. They form the typical aloe rosette form, with dry leaves persistent on the lower parts of the stem.
The leaves bear dark brown spines along their edges and sometimes on their upper and lower surface of the leaves.
WILDLIFE GALLERY:
Hi William
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
Contact an aloe breeder in your area who should be able to give you these details.
Flourish!
Glenice
Where do I register to become an Aloe breeder?
Hi Stephen
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
The key with transplanting aloes is to allow the roots to dry out before replanting. You’ll have to protect the foliage during transportation as the leaves break easily.
You may require a permit to move aloes between provinces, so contact the Aloe council of South Africa (http://www.aloesa.co.za/index.html) to find out more.
Flourish!
Glenice
Hi, I want to transplant aloes from the Karoo to our Jhb garden; what is the best method for success?