Torch Aloe

Aloe arborescens is a bushy, evergreen, multi-headed succulent shrub with rosettes of curved blue-green leaves and upright clusters of tubular red flowers. Its branching form and seasonal flower spikes suit architectural planting where the mature shrub has room to spread. ## Form and seasonal interest The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/923/aloe-arborescens/details) lists mature plants about 2.5–4 m tall and 1.5–2.5 m wide, with flowers from late winter into spring in its conditions. The RHS describes the leaves as curved and toothed, the plant as evergreen, and its growth as multi-headed. Kew accepts Aloe arborescens and documents the species’ native and introduced range. Bloom timing varies with climate. ## Siting Grow in full sun and freely draining soil. The RHS recommends loam and well-drained conditions, and advises keeping aloes out of continuously wet compost and freezing temperatures. Allow space for its broad mature crown; the RHS lists it for architectural and subtropical gardens. ## Maintenance The RHS does not require routine pruning. Water moderately while the plant is growing and very sparingly during winter dormancy, using a gritty cactus mix or a loam-based medium amended for drainage. Check periodically for scale insects and mealybugs.