Candelabra aloe - Aloe arborescens (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Candelabra aloe

Also known as: Octopus plant, Tree aloe

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Candelabra aloe (Aloe arborescens)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Late summer, Fall, Winter

Bloom Time

Winter

Harvest Time

1.8 m to 3 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Red, Orange, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Blue, Red

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Candelabra aloe

Distribution of Candelabra aloe

Distribution Map

Candelabra aloe is native to Southern Africa. It is found on cliffs and rocky areas. It has been introduced to the western Mediterranean area, parts of Australia, and Mexico. Candelabra aloe is considered a minor environmental weed in Australia and potentially invasive in Portugal.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Montane grassland amongst rocks, open evergreen forest, eastern border mountains, coastal forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Candelabra aloe is an amazingly versatile garden plant. It thrives in borders and beds and as a hedge plant. It can be used in rock gardens, too, as well as in pots and containers. In wildfire-prone areas, it can work as fire retardant. In Mediterranean or water-wise gardens, it works well with agave, cacti, and ponytail palms.

Symbolism

Protection, Luck, Grief

Interesting Facts

Candelabra aloe are traditionally planted around livestock enclosures called kraals in South Africa as a type of living fence. This plant is hardy, so the candelabra aloe species often persist long after the kraals have fallen into disrepair. Therefore, the location of old kraals can be discerned by looking for nonnatural arrangements of candelabra aloe around the former enclosures.

Name Story

Candelabra aloe: The latin word arborescens means "tree-like" whereas aloe comes from the Greek word alsos, referring to the bitter juice secreted by the leaves. The stem rose taller than the green leaves with only one stem for each plant. Furthermore, the red conical flowers grow on the head of the stem, resembling a candlestick.

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Toxicity

Candelabra aloe ingestion can cause severe symptoms like organ failure and death in humans, cats, and dogs. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomachache, kidney failure, and lethargy. The plant's gel, latex, and extracts are toxic. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets consume candelabra aloe. Monitoring and preventing access to candelabra aloe is essential, especially for children and pets. Note: candelabra aloe is highly toxic.

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Quickly Identify Candelabra aloe

Robust succulent shrub reaching up to 9 feet (2.74 meters) in height and span.

18-inch-wide (45.72 cm) rosettes with narrow leaves having soft teeth, varying from dull green to blue-green.

Coral-red flowers appearing in late fall on 2-feet-tall (60.88 cm) unbranched stalks above foliage.

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Care Guide for Candelabra aloe

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Candelabra aloe, adapted to arid regions, showcases excellent drought tolerance. It thrives with minimal watering, requiring thorough irrigation approximately every three weeks. Commonly used in xeriscapes, candelabra aloe retains water in its fleshy leaves, suited for its native dry climate.

Fertilize: Candelabra aloe thrives on succulents and cacti-specific fertilizer at quarter strength during active growth in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing after repotting and during dormancy. Gradual release formulas help prevent root burn, while proper soil moisture ensures nutrient absorption, avoiding over-fertilization risks.

Pruning: Candelabra aloe requires minimal pruning; only remove spent flower stalks and dead leaves. Trim orange or brown leaves to enhance nutrient distribution. Use knives for smaller plants and pruning shears for larger ones to maintain health and aesthetics.

Propagation: Candelabra aloe, a resilient succulent from South Africa, thrives in well-draining soil and bright light. Propagate via leaf or stem cuttings, allowing them to callous before planting. Handle sap carefully due to irritation; offsets can be repotted for independent growth.

Repotting: Repot candelabra aloe every 2 years in spring to support growth and vigor. Choose well-draining containers to avoid waterlogging. After repotting, keep candelabra aloe in indirect light and resume regular watering after a week for optimal recovery.

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