Description
Form:
A narrow-leaved, clumping succulent.
Lifespan:
Perennial.
Leaf retention:
Evergreen.
Growth rate:
Rapid.
Mature Size:
Fleshy leaves up to 1' high with flower stalks 1-2' high, 2-4' wide.
Flowers:
Six pointed petals, yellow or orange depending on the cultivar, with long, fluffy stamens.
The flowers are clustered along the upper part of their stalks.
Bloom:
Spring through summer, with a dormant period mid-summer in hot regions, re-blooming from fall
into winter.
Fruit:
A small capsule with black seeds.
Leaves:
Fleshy, narrow, gray-green leaves grow upward from basal clumps.
Stems:
This plant has a short stem and no thorns.
Roots:
In spite of its name, this plant does not have a bulbous base. It spreads by rhizomes
(underground stems with nodes producing roots and shoots), creating colonies.
Wildlife:
The flowers attract bees and butterflies. The seed capsules attract birds.
Toxic / Danger:
None.
Origin:
South Africa.
Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones:
9 - 11. This plant is hardy to 20°F.
Heat tolerant:
Yes.
Drought tolerant:
Yes.
Sun:
Full sun to minimal shade. Shade inhibits flowering.
Planting:
Locate this plant in full sun in well-draining soil. It is adapted to a shallow, rocky, poor
soil habitat.
Soil:
Well drained, dry, low in organic content, pH 6.1-7.8 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
This plant is tolerant of enriched soil.
Water after becoming established:
Deep water every 2 - 4 weeks, depending on temperature, with additional water producing more
blooms. Root rot may develop in continually moist soil.
Mulch:
Do not mulch so that the soil will dry quickly.
Prune:
Removing old flower stalks improves its appearance and may encourage re-blooming.
Litter:
Low.
Propagation:
Propagate by stem cuttings, or by dividing basal clumps every few years so that each has
rhizomes with nodes. Many cultivars will self-seed, although a few are sterile.
Uses:
This plant is primarily grown as an ornamental groundcover and for erosion control on slopes.
The leaf gel can be used in a manner similar to that of Aloe vera.
Comments
This plant is a member of the Aloe family (Asphodelaceae).
Do you have additional information or a different
experience for this plant that you would like to share?
Email gardenwinning@gmail.com. All contributions
are welcome and appreciated.
copyright © GardenOracle.com
Latest update: January, 2022.