Aloe polyphylla (Spiral Aloe)
Aloes are famously easy to grow – as long as they don’t get too wet or too cold. These grow in the high Drakensbergs in Lesotho and are said to often survive several weeks in winter covered in snow. Does this bode well for its chances outside in Sussex? No idea – give it a go and let us know.
They can reach 1ft across in diameter and unlike some other Aloes, they grow singly, not as a clump like Aloe aristata (which we also grow). Despite their famous ability to survive inundation by snow, they need conditions to be as dry as possible so try either in a pot in well drained compost or in the ground in a nice sunny spot where the drainage is good.
The flowers last for several weeks in early summer. See the pictures for description.
Grown from seed.
Hardiness level Amber