Quick Facts
LightFull sun
WaterTypical succulent needs
Maximum Height8 feet / 2.4 m
Maximum Width6 feet / 1.8 m
HardinessUSDA Zone 9a
Minimum Temperature20°F / -6.7°C
PropagationStem cuttings and seeds
ToxicityNot generally toxic
DormancySummer dormant
Growth HabitSucculent tree
Flower ColorRed
WildlifeAttracts hummingbirds
Identification
TrunkA gray, fire-resistant trunk supports forked branches.
LeavesBlue-green oblong leaves grow in fan-shaped clusters.
GrowthOlder lower leaves fall and expose more of the branches.
FlowersRed flowers can appear during spring.
How to Grow Fan Aloe
Light
Provide full sun and approximately six hours of sunlight daily.
Water
Use the soak-and-dry method and water sparingly during summer.
Soil
Use fast-draining soil and avoid standing water around the roots.
Temperature
Protect the plant when temperatures approach 20°F (-6.7°C).
Propagation
Stem Cuttings
- Remove a healthy stem or branch using sterile shears.
- Allow the cutting to callous for several days.
- Place it in well-draining soil.
- Water only after the soil is completely dry.
Seeds
- Sow mature seeds in well-draining soil.
- Start them indoors under a grow light in cooler climates.
- Keep in mind that seed-grown plants develop slowly.
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom | Plantae |
|---|---|
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Subfamily | Asphodeloideae |
| Tribe | Aloeae |
| Genus | Kumara |
| Species | Kumara plicatilis |
| Former Name | Aloe plicatilis |
Classification: Fan Aloe is now commonly classified as Kumara plicatilis. Many growers and older references still use the name Aloe plicatilis.
Sources and Image Attribution
Plant details are compiled from the existing Xerophyte.Garden profile.
Primary image by Raffi Kojian via Wikipedia.
