How to identify Dune aloe (Aloe thraskii)

Photo By davide bonaldo

How to identify Dune aloe (Aloe thraskii)

Dune aloe is a statuesque, unbranched succulent reaching heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters). It brandishes pale olive-green leaves, shaped in a distinctive U-profile, complete with small reddish-brown teeth along their margins. These leaves tend to curve back toward the trunk, forming a unique skirt of dried foliage. The species is known to bloom in winter, displaying 15 to 25 yellow and orange flowers arranged in erect, well-branched inflorescences. Mature plants may exhibit multiple inflorescences, while juveniles typically bear just one.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Succulent

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Dune aloe

Statuesque succulent, up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall

U-profile olive-green leaves with reddish-brown teeth, curving back towards trunk

Unique skirt of dried foliage formed by leaf curvature

Winter bloom with 15-25 yellow and orange flowers on erect inflorescences

Mature plants may have multiple inflorescences; juveniles typically have one

Dune aloe and Their Similar Plants

Aloe vera vs. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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. Dune 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 Dune aloe

Attributes of Dune aloe

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Succulent

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Scientific Classification of Dune aloe

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Dune aloe (Aloe thraskii)

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Distribution Map of Dune aloe

Dune aloe is endemic to the coastal areas of the southeastern part of the African continent. It thrives in its native habitat and has spread along the eastern coastline. The species has been introduced to a range of subtropical and tropical climates outside of its native range, often cultivated in gardens and collections for its ornamental value.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Dune aloe

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