Aloe ferox
Also known as: Bitter aloe, Cape aloe
The Cape bitter aloe: a 2–3 m single-stemmed tree aloe whose dried lower leaves form a skirt. It comes from South Africa (Cape), stays around Single stem 2–3 m, and tolerates USDA 9b–11; light frost only. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Aloe
- Origin: South Africa (Cape)
- Mature size: Single stem 2–3 m
- Hardiness: USDA 9b–11; light frost only
- Toxicity: Latex (aloin) is a strong laxative if ingested
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Aloe
- Origin
- South Africa (Cape)
- Mature size
- Single stem 2–3 m
- Growth habit
- Tall single-stemmed tree aloe with dried leaf skirt
- Leaf colour
- Thick fleshy leaves with brown teeth along the whole face
- Flower colour
- Red-orange candelabra
- Hardiness
- USDA 9b–11; light frost only
- Toxicity
- Latex (aloin) is a strong laxative if ingested
- Other names
- Bitter aloe, Cape aloe
About the Aloe ferox
The Cape bitter aloe: a 2–3 m single-stemmed tree aloe whose dried lower leaves form a skirt. Harvested commercially for its bitter laxative latex (aloin). Majestic, drought-hardy, light frost only.
Care and cultivation
Bright light, coarse mix, water around the base rather than into the crown. Stress reddening is normal in strong sun. Light: Bright light; some direct sun. Water: Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Soil: Succulent mix with coarse grit.
Description
Aloe ferox is a Aloe succulent from South Africa (Cape). The Cape bitter aloe: a 2–3 m single-stemmed tree aloe whose dried lower leaves form a skirt. Harvested commercially for its bitter laxative latex (aloin). Majestic, drought-hardy, light frost only.
Identification
Key identification features: Thick fleshy leaves with brown teeth along the whole face leaves in a Tall single-stemmed tree aloe with dried leaf skirt form, reaching Single stem 2–3 m. Also known as Bitter aloe, Cape aloe. Nickname: 'Bitter aloe'. Nickname: 'Bitter aloe'.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Aloe ferox?
Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Let the soil dry completely between waterings and reduce water in winter.
Is Aloe ferox toxic to pets?
Latex (aloin) is a strong laxative if ingested. Considered safe around pets.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Aloe ferox, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.