Aloe sp.

Aloe sp.

When searching for a flower to photograph for today I realized I had written very little about the Aloe genus although I have about six different species in my garden. This is the time of year when various Aloe species start sending up stalks in preparation for their late December, January and February flowering. Although the tubular shaped flowers of this Aloe have not yet opened, they are close to it, and they will remain yellow.

I am not sure of the species of this particular Aloe. There are over 300 species in the genus, divided into eight types. The types are, Stemless, Grass, Tree, Creeping, Dwarf, Rambling, Single-stemmed and Speckled. This one is obviously in the Speckled Aloe group. Most Aloes come from Arabia, Madagascar and Africa.

In Phoenix, Aloes need light shade and some frost protection. I did not heed this advice and I planted this Aloe in full sun. It struggles through the summer, but in fall and winter, it perks up and consistently produces flowers. Last winter it received some frost damage, but I cut away those leaves and it has continued to thrive. Perhaps I’ll move it to a shadier spot in spring.

If anyone knows the species identity of this Aloe, I would appreciate some help.