Aloe ferox Mill.
Bitter Aloe, Cape Aloe, Red Aloe, Tap Aloe
Aloe galpinii, Aloe horrida, Aloe muricata, Aloe perfoliata var. ferox, Aloe pseudoferox, Aloe subferox, Aloe supralaevis, Pachidendron ferox, Pachidendron pseudoferox, Pachidendron supralaeve
Aloe ferox is a large succulent, up to 10 feet (3 m) tall, with erect, unbranched stem and fleshy leaves arranged in rosettes. The leaves are blue-green with reddish-brown spines on the margins and smaller spines on the upper and lower surfaces. The old leaves remain after they have dried, and form a "petticoat" on the stem. The inflorescence is erect with 5 to 8 racemes of tubular, bright red, or orange flowers.
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown plant can be quite beautiful. As with all succulents, it is essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.
These succulents are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. In the spring, repot Aloes that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During the repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to carefully divide the root ball. Some varieties of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
Aloe plants need strong, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun, once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C) but will survive down to 40 °F (4.5 °C). Feed with a succulent fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe
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