Scientific name: Aloe polyphylla
Common name: Spiral Aloe
The spirals of this succulent are beautiful, but sharp. The spiral can turn clockwise or counter clockwise. It is considered to be one of the most difficult plants to grow.
Quick Look at Aloe polyphylla
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 12″ (30 cm) tall
Plant grows up to 24″ (61 cm) wide - Zone 10a (Minimum 20° F | -1.1° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by offsets
- Can be toxic to humans and animals
- Summer Dormant
General Care for Aloe polyphylla “Spiral Aloe”
TheSpiralAloe has five rows of leaves. Each row contains between 15 and 30 leaves, creating a rosette that can grow up to 1 foot (31 cm) across.
In the spring there are pink-orange flowers.
Watering
TheSpiralAloe needs a bit less water than other Succulents. 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 30 F, it’s best to plant younger plants in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
There is an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day.
How to Propagate Aloe polyphylla “Spiral Aloe”
You may think that you can grow Aloe from leaves, but this is not the case, and you may find your leaves rotting. Instead, it is propagation from seeds or offsets.
Offsets
After several years of growth,SpiralAloe will produce an offset. The main plant can be separated from this using a sterile knife.
When removing the offset, use care as the leaves are sharp. Remove the bottom of the plant, allow it to callous over, and plant in well-draining soil.
History and Name
It is used in African tribal medicine and magic. These plants are not safe in the wild.
Polyphylla comes from Latin words meaning many and leaves. In South Africa, it’s also called “Crown Aloe.”.
