Candelabra Aloe
English name:
Candelabra AloeLatin name:
Aloe ArborescensAbout me:
I am one of 130 species of Aloe in the world, but I am the most familiar. The Latin 'arborescens' means tree-like and I grow as a many-branched shrub. I have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries - I'm even mentioned in ancient Egyptian papyrus scrolls.Useful to know:
Origin
I originate in South Africa.
Height/Growth
Outdoors, I can grow to 2-3m high, but in your home I'll probably not get bigger than about 80cm.
Light
I love light and can withstand six to eight hours of direct sun. Find the brightest spot in your home and pop me in there.
Water
Water me when my soil is dry to 2" below the surface. Make sure I am not sitting in water - I can't stand soggy soil!
Temperature
I will grow well in normal room temperatures and I'm tolerant of dry air.
Feeding
I generally do not need fertilising but if it's going round, I'll gladly have some!
Grooming
No need to fuss over me - I'm happy as I am.
Care
I'm easy going and really don't need much other than a bright spot.
Toxicity
Good news: I am pet friendly!
Fact
The extract in my leaves is such a powerful healer that I was used to treat radiation burn victims in Hiroshima.
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