Scientific Name
Aloidendron barberae (Dyer) Klopper & Gideon F.Sm.
Common Name(s)
Giant Tree Aloe, Tree Aloe, South African Tree Aloe
Synonym(s)
Aloe barberae, Aloe bainesii, Aloe bainesii var. barberae, Aloe zeyheri
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Aloe
Description
Aloidendron barberae, formerly known as Aloe barberae, is a slow-growing tree-like succulent with branches that bear leaves arranged in a dense rosette. It grows up to 54 feet (18 m) tall. The trank can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in diameter. Leaves are dark green, narrow, deeply channeled, curved, and have toothed margins. The inflorescence is simple or divided into three side branches. Flowers are tubular, rose pink, green-tipped, and appear in winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown plant can be quite beautiful. 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.
These succulents are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. However, in the spring, repot Aloes that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During the repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to divide the root ball carefully. Some varieties of Aloe will send off offsets that can be potted independently.
Aloe plants need strong, 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 succulent fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aloe.
Origin
This species is native to South Africa northwards to Mozambique.
Links
- Back to genus Aloidendron
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
