How to identify African aloe (Aloe africana)

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How to identify African aloe (Aloe africana)

African aloe is a solitary, often unbranched, aloe resembling a small tree, typically reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height. The rosettes are compact with gracefully arching leaves that measure about 2 feet (60 cm) in length. These lance-shaped leaves are thick and possess a grayish blue-green hue, with conspicuous sharp red teeth along the margins and a row of teeth on the lower surface's center. Seasonally, african aloe produces an unbranched to few-branched inflorescence, 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) tall, bearing terminal spikes of downward-inclined flowers. These flowers are orange when in bud, turning yellow upon opening from the base of the spike upwards, with the tips curving upwards uniquely.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Succulent

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify African aloe

Solitary aloe-like plant, reaching 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height.

Lance-shaped leaves with grayish blue-green color and red teeth along margins.

Inflorescence 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, bearing uniquely orange to yellow flowers.

African aloe and Their Similar Plants

Aloe vera vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Aloe vera is an evergreen succulent species native to the Arabian Peninsula. The thick leaves are filled with gooey flesh that stores water for survival in its native desert territories. Aloe vera has become a popular houseplant and is also incorporated into a wide range of cosmetics and skin-care products.

Candelabra aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Candelabra aloe (*Aloe arborescens*) is a flowering succulent species native to Southern Africa. Candelabra aloe attracts birds, bees, and butterflies. This species is related to the well-known species Aloe vera. The Latin name Aloe arborescens means tree-like. In South Africa, it is commonly planted around livestock enclosures as a type of living fence or security border.

Soap aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Soap aloe (Aloe maculata) is an evergreen succulent perennial that will grow to 46 cm tall and 61 cm wide. It has sword-shaped, spotted leaves that turn pinkish red in full sun and bluish green in the shade. It blooms from winter to spring with coral orange flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. Tolerant to both drought and salt, it grows well in coastal gardens and rock gardens.

Tiger aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Tiger aloe (Aloe variegata) is an evergreen succulent species native to South Africa and Namibia. Tiger aloe is also commonly known as partridge-breasted aloe and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental species. This species cannot grow in cold or wet regions, and must be grown indoors under glass during the winter in cold areas. Tiger aloe was among the first plants cultivated in Cape Town by the Dutch East India Company. Sunbirds are fond of tiger aloe nectar.

Christmas carol aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Christmas carol aloe is a slow-growing variety of aloe that got its name from its festive-looking dark green leaves, which sport bright red and crimson edges and raised spots. It is often used in rock gardens, or as a decorative indoor plant.

Tiger tooth aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Aloe juvenna gets its common name, tiger tooth aloe, from its menacing-looking spiny teethed leaves. However, this plant is all bark and no bite, as the spines are harmless and will not prick you if touched. In 1979 some unknowing person incorrectly labeled the plant as "possible juvenile Aloe," which turned into the Latin word "juvenna," which eventually became the official species name.

Spider aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Spider aloe was given the species name "humilis," which means "low-growing," because it is one of the smaller members of the aloe family. Its small stature coupled with upright, evergreen leaves makes it a popular houseplant. This easy to care for plant does not require much water or fertilizer. The occasional red flower stems are an added bonus.

Chinese aloe vs. African aloe: What's The Difference?

Chinese aloe (Aloe vera var. chinensis) is an aloe species related to the well-known aloe vera plant. While some variants of aloe vera are edible, chinese aloe is not. This species is originally from South Africa, but is now cultivated around the world in gardens as an ornamental succulent.

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Key Facts About African aloe

Attributes of African aloe

Plant Type

Succulent

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of African aloe

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

African aloe (Aloe africana)

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Distribution Map of African aloe

African aloe is originally native to the southern regions of the African continent. It has since been introduced and cultivated in various arid and semi-arid regions globally. African aloe thrives in Mediterranean climates and has been naturalized in similar environments beyond its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the African aloe

A Comprehensive Guide to African aloe How to Grow and Care for African aloe