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| Category: Succulent |
| Family: Aloeaceae (Aloes) |
| Origin: Madagascar |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Red/Purple Foliage: Yes |
| Flower Color: Red |
| Bloomtime: Winter |
| Height: 8-12 feet |
| Width: 4-5 feet |
| Exposure: Full Sun |
| Summer Dry: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 25-30° F |
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Aloe vaombe (Malagasy Tree Aloe) – Beautiful large unbranched succulent to 12 feet tall or more with large solitary rosettes up to 5 feet across of recurved long smooth green leaves that have whitish teeth. These leaves are cupped-shaped in cross section and take on rich red tones in winter. The fiery red flowers are borne in erect branched racemes in mid-winter. Plant in full sun and water occasionally to little once established, though plants grow much faster and more lushly with regular irrigation. Reportedly tolerant of most soil types and varied climates but not cold hardy much below 27 °F as evidenced by damage and survival stories reported around the Los Angeles area after the January 2007 cold spell – all our plants in the nursery were covered so we don't know if it could have survived exposed to the 25°F that we got 3 nights in a row during this period. It is a great centerpiece specimen for the near frost free garden with red foliage and flowers making a stunning combination in January. The flowers attract bees and birds to the garden. This large Aloe comes from Southern Madagascar where it grows in dry thorny scrub on limestone soils. The specific epithet comes from the indigenous name 'vahombre'.
This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Aloe vaombe.
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