Aloe Species

Very attractive species, but also very hardwired for winter rainfall. It can be challenging to grow outdoors in the Phoenix area, especi...Read Moreally in late August and into September when the effects of long term heat really start showing up in plants you thought were "just a little stressed." Careful watering is a must in the hot months and superior drainage is wise. If you can grow this plant under shade cloth or a temperature controlled greenhouse, you'll have better luck with it in the low deserts. If you're above 1700' elevation and farther from the urban heat island, you'll also likely have better luck. Tucson might be a good place for this Aloe.

This plant does well in direct sun in the ground. It does well with minimal irrigation in Southern Calif coastal and inland to 7 miles. ...Read More It does even better with light additional watering in spring and fall months when dry. Light fertilizer seems to boost its growth whenever additional water is given.

I have had this plant in the ground for about 10 years and I swear it's exactly the same size I planted it- SLOW!. Interesting upright s...Read Moretemless aloe with blue-grey leaves covered with spines (not viscious, but firm and can scrape you). This is a white-spined, somewhat dwarf version of A melanocantha. Never seen mine flower... come to think of it, I have never seen one flower anywhere (not this variety at least). Fairly cold tolerant for an aloe. Rarely grown outdoors since large plants costly and makes such a good potted specimen.