Aloe striata aka Coral Aloe

Aloe striata, or coral aloe, is an evergreen succulent perennial. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. It grows wild in South Africa's Cape region. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists southern Namibia in its range. Wild plants grow on dry, rocky slopes near the coast. They also grow inland in the dry Karoo. Most plants form one rosette close to the ground. Some produce offsets that slowly form small groups. Old plants may develop a short trunk.

Garden plants reach about 2–3.3 feet [0.6–1 metre] tall and wide. LLIFLE describes smaller rosettes, about 0.8 feet [0.25 metres] tall. These spread about 1.5 feet [0.45 metres] across. In good conditions, their width can reach 3.3 feet [1 metre]. The broad, fleshy leaves taper to a pointed tip. They can reach 1.5 feet [0.46 metres] long. Dark lines run along the pale grey-green or blue-green leaves. Their smooth edges lack teeth and have a pink tint. Strong sun can deepen this tint to pinkish red. Cold weather can also turn the leaves pink.

Branched flower stalks rise 2–3 feet [0.6–0.9 metres] tall. They carry dense groups of orange-red, tube-shaped flowers. Each flower is about 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] long. Flowering runs from winter into spring, though timing varies by site. Chicago Botanic Garden lists January through April. LLIFLE reports that blooms can last for three months. Sunbirds and other nectar-feeding birds visit the flowers. In suitable outdoor gardens, hummingbirds also feed on them. The plant attracts butterflies as well as birds.

Give coral aloe full sun and soil that drains well. Protect it from harsh afternoon sun in hot summers. Sandy loam suits it, as does gritty cactus potting compost. It tolerates drought and dry, shallow, rocky soil. Extra water during growth can improve its size and appearance. Let the soil dry out fully between waterings. Reduce watering sharply during winter dormancy. Sources place it in USDA zones 9–11. Plants may need winter protection in colder parts of zone 9. The RHS rates it H1C for UK conditions. There, growers can keep pots indoors and move them outside in summer.

Coral aloe suits rock gardens, dry borders, and desert plantings. Its leaf shape also works well as a single specimen. It grows in pots and needs no routine pruning. Propagate it from ripe seed or separate offsets in spring or early summer. Scale insects and mealybugs may attack it. Most plants have few disease problems when drainage is good. Wet soil can cause root or crown rot. The RHS warns that eating it can harm people and pets. Wear gloves and other protection when handling it.