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Aloe plicatilis Orto botanico Palermo 0015 by Esculapio (CC BY-SA 3.0)Fan Aloe
Aloe plicatilis
The fan Aloe is a unique and striking multi-branched shrub or small tree species with a woody trunk. The forked stems have clusters of strap-shaped, light green to blue-grey leaves arranged in 2 opposite rows (termed distichous). The clusters resemble an open fan, hence it's common name fan Aloe, the leaves are around 30cm long. Flowers are striking scarlet in colour, tipped with green-yellow and are visible winter-spring. It is used as an ornamental garden plant. A unique feature is the corky bark, adapted to Fynbos veld fires.
Planning
Difficulty
Easy
Flowering time
Spring, Winter
Harvesting
Seeds should be allowed to dry for at least 3 months after flowering before they are harvested.
Propagation
Cuttings
Branch cuttings (truncheons) can be used and should be planted in well drained soil in a cool area that is not exposed to afternoon sun.
Seed
Plant seeds during spring in well-drained seed trays. Replant in the desired position when seedlings are large enough to handle and space 1.2 m - 2.4 m apart.
Special features
Attracts birds
Sugarbirds are attracted by the nectar that the flowers produce.
Geography
Origin
South Africa (Southwestern Cape, Franschhoek and Elandskloof).
Natural climate
Mediterranean
Environment
Light
Full Sun
Soil moisture
Dry
Soil type
Sand, Loam
Soil PH preference
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Frost hardiness
Tender
Uses
Notes
Ornamental and medicinal.
Personality
Family
Asphodelaceae
Flower colour
, Red, Orange
Scent
None
Problems
Overwatering or poor drainage may lead to root rot, but is seldom a problem where plants are watered correctly.
Companion plants
Grows best in mineral poor sandy soil, and companion plants includes other Fynbos species.
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