Scientific name: Aloe ferox
Common name: Cape Aloe
The largeAloe has long green leaves that turn red in the Summer sun. The leaves have teeth on the edges and are upright. Plants with tall spikes of orange flowers can appear in the fall.
Quick Look at Aloe ferox
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 24″ (60 cm) tall
Plant grows up to 36″ (91 cm) wide - Zone 9a (Minimum 20° F | -6.7° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by offsets and seeds
- Spines can cause irritation to pets and people
- Summer Dormant
General Care for Aloe ferox “Cape Aloe”
It is a great addition to rock gardens or xeriscaped yards. It has flowers that attract bees and hummingbirds. The leaves of young plants tend to break easily.
Watering
The watering needs for a succulent are typical. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 20 F, it’s best to plant this plant in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
You can plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, place a room that gets a lot of sunlight near a southern-facing window.
How to Propagate Aloe ferox “Cape Aloe”
Aloe ferox can be grown from seeds or offsets.
Offsets
Use a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors to grow Cape Aloe. Remove a stem from the main plant and allow it to grow for a few days before planting. Water whenever the soil has dried out.
Seeds
You can sow your seeds in a well-draining soil. If you live in a zone above 9a, you can grow Aloe seeds outdoors. If you live in a cooler area, you can sow indoors under a grow light or on a seed mat.