Aloe polyphylla aka Spiral Aloe
Taxonomy
Common names
Spiral Aloe, Basotoland Aloe, Coiled AloeHow to care for Spiral Aloe
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Spiral Aloe, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Spiral Aloe does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
The Spiral Aloe is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.
Lighting
Spiral Aloe requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Spiral Aloe will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Humidity
Spiral Aloe prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.
Fertilizer
The Spiral Aloe is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Spiral Aloe’s native range is Southern Africa to India.
More info:
Wikipedia