Aloe melanacantha (Black-Spined Aloe)


Botanical Information

FamilyAsphodelaceae
GenusAloe
Speciesmelanacantha
CategoryTropicals

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9b - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneCool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1b
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)10
Temperature (°F)50
Height0.1 - 0.5 m
Spread0.1 - 0.5 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodJune, July, August

Description and Growing Information

ShapeMat-forming and clumping.
LandscapeSpecimen, in succulent or aloe collections, as an accent piece or ground cover in arid gardens.
PropagationPropagation by seed or offsets.
CultivationPlant in well-drained sand or loam of any acidity. Prefers full sun under glass.
PestsScales and mealybugs.
Leaf DescriptionSmooth matte leaves with small spines along the edges.
Flower DescriptionA single branch forms in late autumn with trusses of long narrow flowers.
Colour DescriptionMatte green leaves. Red flowers form in late autumn that fade to yellow with age.
Texture DescriptionSmooth and leathery.

Photographs