Aloe polyphylla
Also known as: Spiral aloe
The spiral aloe of Lesotho — the national plant, its leaves corkscrew in a flawless five-ranked spiral. It comes from South Africa (Lesotho mountains), stays around Rosette 45–60 cm, and tolerates USDA 7–9; hardy to about -12 °C when dry. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Aloe
- Origin: South Africa (Lesotho mountains)
- Mature size: Rosette 45–60 cm
- Hardiness: USDA 7–9; hardy to about -12 °C when dry
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Aloe
- Origin
- South Africa (Lesotho mountains)
- Mature size
- Rosette 45–60 cm
- Growth habit
- The famous perfect spiral of five leaf ranks
- Leaf colour
- Blue-green heavy leaves with pink teeth
- Flower colour
- Red-orange spikes
- Hardiness
- USDA 7–9; hardy to about -12 °C when dry
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic
- Other names
- Spiral aloe
About the Aloe polyphylla
The spiral aloe of Lesotho — the national plant, its leaves corkscrew in a flawless five-ranked spiral. It demands cool nights, high-altitude conditions and excellent drainage; indoors it is nearly impossible. Hardy to about -12 °C outdoors in dry cold.
Care and cultivation
Aloes want bright light, a coarse mix and restraint with water. Water around the base rather than into the crown, which traps moisture. Most aloes redden in strong sun — this is stress colour, not disease; move to gentler light if the leaves go soft. Light: Bright light; some direct sun for colour, avoid sudden full-sun moves. Water: Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Use a Succulent mix with coarse grit; aloes tolerate slightly richer soil.
Description
Aloe polyphylla is an Aloe succulent from South Africa (Lesotho mountains). The spiral aloe of Lesotho — the national plant, its leaves corkscrew in a flawless five-ranked spiral. It demands cool nights, high-altitude conditions and excellent drainage; indoors it is nearly impossible. Hardy to about -12 °C outdoors in dry cold.
Identification
Look for: Blue-green heavy leaves with pink teeth leaves in a Rosette 45–60 cm form. Also answers to Spiral aloe. The genus is Aloe, which already narrows down the care requirements considerably. Nickname: 'Spiral aloe'.
Common problems
Reddening from sun stress (move into gentler light) • Rot at the base if water pools in the crown • Scale insects on leaf undersides
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my Aloe polyphylla?
Every 2–3 weeks; much less in winter. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings, and water less in winter when growth slows.
How much light does Aloe polyphylla need?
Bright light; some direct sun for colour, avoid sudden full-sun moves. If the plant stretches or loses colour, it needs more light.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Aloe polyphylla, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.