Aloe africana aka Uitenbage Aloe

Aloe africana is an evergreen succulent from South Africa's Cape region. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. In the wild, it grows on hills and flats. Its habitats include thicket, renosterveld, and sandy coastal and valley bushveld. It comes from a subtropical climate with rain throughout the year. Summers in its native habitat are hot and humid.

This upright plant forms a woody shrub with fleshy leaves. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Some plants reach 13 feet [4 metres], though this is unusual. Most have one stem, but some branch near the base. Thick, grey-green leaves form a somewhat uneven rosette. Each long, strap-shaped leaf bears sharp red spines along its edges. The leaves stay on the plant throughout the year.

Tall flower spikes tend to form as days grow shorter. The buds start deep orange and become lighter as they develop. Open flowers show more yellow than the buds. Each tube-shaped flower hangs down, then turns upward at its mouth. Sunbirds pollinate the blooms. The tall spikes and upright form give the plant a strong outline. Gardeners use it in gravel beds, courtyards, and patio containers. The RHS also lists it for prairie-style planting.

Give this aloe full sun and shelter from harsh exposure. It needs soil that drains well and tolerates poor ground. Sources recommend sandy soil or loam with added grit. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. For pots, use peat-free cactus compost or a gritty loam-based mix. Water moderately during growth, then give very little water during winter dormancy. The plant can cope with drought. Feed monthly from May through August with a general liquid fertiliser. In cool climates, grow it indoors and move it outside for summer. The RHS rates it H2, so protect it from freezing. Useful Tropical Plants reports some tolerance of brief, light frost.

The RHS gives a maturity range of two to five years. It needs no routine pruning. Growers can raise plants from seed or leaf cuttings. Scale insects and mealybugs may attack it, though diseases are seldom a problem. Eating the plant can harm both people and pets. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling its spiny leaves. Useful Tropical Plants records local medicinal use but gives no treatment details. It lists no known food use.