African Aloe

Aloe africana is a tall, tender evergreen succulent with a usually unbranched stem topped by a rosette of thick gray-green leaves edged with sharp red spines. Its tall flower spikes carry curved tubular flowers that begin deep orange and open toward yellow, making the plant a strong architectural feature for a bright, sheltered site. ## Form and flowers The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/921/aloe-africana/details) describes plants about 1.5–2.5 m tall and 1–1.5 m wide, with upright growth, orange buds, and flowers that become more yellow as they open. The RHS lists the species as an evergreen succulent and gives it a UK H2 rating, meaning it tolerates low temperatures but not freezing; that rating is not a USDA zone. ## Siting Choose full sun and freely draining soil. The RHS recommends loam and well-drained conditions, and lists patio and container planting among suitable garden uses. Allow room for the mature crown and protect plants from freezing weather and persistently wet compost. ## Maintenance Use a gritty cactus mix or add horticultural grit to a loam-based medium in containers. Water moderately during active growth and very sparingly during winter dormancy. Routine pruning is not required; monitor for scale insects and mealybugs.