How to identify Bitter aloe (Aloe ferox)

How to identify Bitter aloe (Aloe ferox)

Bitter aloe, also known as Red aloe, Ferocious aloe, South African aloe

Bitter aloe is a strikingly tall, single-stemmed plant reaching heights of 6 to 9+ feet (1.8 to 2.7+ meters). It features a rosette of blue-green leaves that grow 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in length. These leaves are noteworthy for their reddish spines that line the margins and may appear on younger leaf surfaces. Over time, older leaves desiccate and form a distinctive 'petticoat' around the stem. The plant exhibits dark orange flowers with inner white petals on a large, branched inflorescence that stands majestically above the foliage from late fall to mid-winter. It thrives in full sunlight and requires minimal to regular watering, tolerating very dry conditions.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Succulent

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Bitter aloe

Tall single stem reaching 6-9+ feet (1.8-2.7+ meters).

Rosette of blue-green leaves, 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long with reddish spines along margins.

Distinctive 'petticoat' formed by desiccated older leaves around the stem.

Dark orange flowers with inner white petals on large branched inflorescence.

Thrives in full sunlight, tolerates very dry conditions with minimal to regular watering.

Bitter aloe and Their Similar Plants

Aloe vera vs. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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. Bitter 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 Bitter aloe

Attributes of Bitter aloe

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Succulent

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

75 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Orange

Red

Stem Color

Green

Blue

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Bitter aloe

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Bitter aloe (Aloe ferox)

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Distribution Map of Bitter aloe

Bitter aloe is native to the southern part of the African continent, thriving particularly in regions with a Mediterranean climate. Beyond its native range, bitter aloe has been introduced and is now cultivated in various areas, notably within continents such as Europe and Oceania. The role of bitter aloe as a cultivated plant highlights its adaptability and widespread horticultural appreciation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Bitter aloe

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