gardening

Spiral Aloe (Aloe polyphylla)

qPq09

Aloe polyphylla is a stemless aloe and grows its leaves in a very distinctive spiral shape. The plants do not seem to sucker or produce off-shoots, but from the germination of their seeds they can form small, dense clumps. The fat, wide, serrated, gray-green leaves have sharp, dark leaf-tips.

This aloe flowers at the beginning of summer, producing red-to-pink flowers at the head of robust, branched inflorescences.

Care Provide full sun or light shade and excellent drainage. Winter moisture is fatal.

Height                    6 in. to 12 in.
Spread                   6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Habit          Clumps
Light                       Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture                 Dry to Medium
Maintenance           low

Characteristics        Showy Foliage
Uses                       Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point
Style                       Desert Garden, Rock Garden
Seasonal Interest    Spring Interest
Tolerance                Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
Type                       Cacti and Succulents
See also  Make a Holiday Container Garden