Aloe speciosa (Tilt-Head Aloe)

Aloe speciosa (Tilt-head Aloe) is a large and showy, evergreen succulent forming a decorative rosette of long and slender, blue-green leaves, often tinged pink at the tips and edges, up to 3 ft. long (90 cm). Each leaf is adorned with small, pale to deep red, soft teeth. What makes this species easy to distinguish is the tendency of its rosette to lean toward the greatest sun exposure, hence the common name. The old leaves remain after they have dried, forming a ‘petticoat’ on the stem. Generally single-stemmed, Tilt-head Aloe produces a short, conical raceme, 20 in. tall (50 cm), densely packed with showy flowers. The buds are deep red when young and mature to green with white stripes. The dark reddish brown stamens and style protrude conspicuously when the flowers open, providing a tri-color look. While the inflorescence is solitary, one rosette can produce up to 4 inflorescences. A wonderful specimen plant for the garden that is quite attractive to hummingbirds.

• Grows up to 8-10 ft. tall (240-300 cm) and 4-6 ft. wide (120-180 cm). When growing in harsh conditions, it is usually smaller and often single-stemmed.
• Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. This Aloe is adaptable and will grow in various soil types. However, it prefers fertile, sandy loam soil. Water well initially to encourage maximum root growth. Once established, the plant should be self-sustaining.
• Great for beds and borders, rock gardens, succulent gardens, or Mediterranean gardens. Ideal as an accent plant in sunny borders or decorative containers.
• Deer resistant. The flowers produce nectar and are attractive to birds and bees.
• Virtually disease free. Occasionally prone to rust
• Native to South Africa