Aloe 'Hellskloof Bells'

Scientific Name

Aloe 'Hellskloof Bells'

Synonym(s)

Aloe pearsonii × distans

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe

Description

Aloe 'Hellskloof Bells' is a slow-growing succulent that forms spectacular clumps of erect, columnar branches covered with plump, lance-shaped, gray-green leaves that blush red to maroon in full sun. The branches can reach a height of 2 feet (60 cm).

Flowers are pendent, tubular, pink in bud, opening to a soft pastel orange, and appear in large dense heads on tall stalks in fall.

Origin

Aloe 'Hellskloof Bells' is a hybrid created in 1991 by Brian Kemble, a noted student of the genus Aloe. It is a result of a cross between Aloe pearsonii and Aloe distans.

Etymology

The hybrid name "Hellskloof Bells" is a play on the term "hell's bells."

Aloe 'Hellskloof Bells' — *Photo via agaveville.org*

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aloes are very forgiving plants. However, as with all succulents, Aloe must never be allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.

Aloes are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot plants in the spring that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third of sand or pebbles. When repotting a larger plant, dividing the root ball carefully is possible. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.

It needs intense, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C) but will survive down to 40 °F (4.5 °C). Feed with a cactus fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.

Photo Gallery

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