The torch aloe, Aloe arborescens, is native to Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. It bears dense rosettes of succulent, toothed, sword-shaped leaves, from which tall,torch-like red flowers – similar to kniphofia – appear in summer.
For best results grow Aloe arborescens in cactus compost in a large container and water sparingly. Stop watering altogether between September and March. It's best suited to growing as a houseplant in the conservatory or greenhouse, but it can be moved to a sheltered, sunny patio in summer.
Aloe arborescens is unlikely to flower in Britain.
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Aloe ‘Arborescens’ and wildlife
Aloe ‘Arborescens’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
Is Aloe ‘Arborescens’ poisonous?
Aloe ‘Arborescens’ causes an upset stomach. Its foliage, roots and sap are toxic.
