Aloe polyphylla is a fast growing species that can reach full size after 5 or 6 years. The leaves contain a significant amount of water so they are quite succulent. At about 2 years of age, the leaves begin to spiral to the right or left when viewed from above. The spiral arrangement gives the leaves maximum light exposure in the least space. In spring, it produces a beautiful, 2-foot-tall flower stalk. This plant is native to the mountains of Lesotho, a small country in South Africa. It has been in decline in numbers due to overexploitation and because its only pollinator, a local bird, is also in decline.
This gorgeous succulent is well suited for container gardening, rock gardens, and other succulent gardens. Being able to thrive in dry environments makes it a great houseplant. Spiral aloe is in high demand but hard to find because of the specific growing conditions it requires. If you can find one, it will be well worth your time because of its incredible looks.
Spiral aloe is a fast-growing species that can fully develop after 5-6 years. The leaves contain a significant amount of water so they are quite thick. Around two years old, the leaves begin to spiral to the right or left
Spiral aloe (Aloe Polyphylla) needs a lot of sunlight, so place it near a window on the bright side if you're growing it inside. Make sure the foil does not touch the glass as this may cause damage. Growing spiral aloe outside in highly warm climates can be challenging as shade requires 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
Spiral aloe does not tolerate extreme heat, in fact, it stops growing from 30º C, especially if the night is very warm. It requires mild temperatures and appears to be frost tolerant down to -12º C, although only at maturity should young plants be preserved from frost. It can be grown in pots, large of course, we can cover up if the winter is harsh and if the summer is too hot, it will have to be stored in a cool place.
Aloe Polyphylla can only grow in well-drained, slightly acidic and aerated soil. A standard cactus and succulent soil mix can be used, but adding a little pumice or lava rock will improve the plant's ability to aerate. Potting soil, horticultural sand, and pumice or lava rock can be used in a 2-1-1 ratio to create a homemade potting mix.
Like most succulents, twisted aloe is extremely drought tolerant and does not require much water. In fact, waterlogging and root rot are some of the most common reasons gardeners and indoor enthusiasts struggle to keep this succulent plant alive.
Make sure the soil is completely dry between waterings and cut back on watering in the fall and winter months. If you live in an area with regular rainfall and you're hoping to grow spiral aloe outdoors, growing your aloe in a container that can move indoors and out of the rain is probably a good idea.
There is no need to regularly fertilize spiral aloe as it is used to growing in sandy, poor quality soil. If desired, an annual fertilizing of the cactus or succulent fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial to help promote growth during active growth.
Spiral aloe is generally pest-free, although it can sometimes be bothered by sap-sucking pests such as mealybugs and scale aphids. Make sure that you regularly inspect the plant to detect any pests early. Mealybugs and scales especially like to hide in the crevices of plants and on the backs of leaves.
You can also eliminate a mild scaly insect infestation by dipping a face sponge or plain cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dabbing each insect. Alcohol alone will kill the scales, but dead insects will remain on your plants and make it difficult to spot new pests.
Removing dead leaves and wasted flower stalks is all that is needed for Aloe Polyphylla, as opposed to standard pruning. Brown or orange leaves should be removed so the plant's energy can be focused on keeping the green parts alive. Pruning shears should be used for anything of a certain size, while a sharp knife can be used for anything. Remove any dead flower stems or plant material and any spots on leaves that have turned a different color or are beginning to wither.
Aloe Polyphylla's slow growth means it will only need to be repotted every two or three years. Make sure the pot you buy has a drainage hole in the bottom to keep the plant alive. Because of the soil's ability to absorb excess moisture, terracotta or clay pots are great choices for spiral aloe.
Turn the pot upside down or upside down and gently shake the plant out of the pot to replant the Aloe Polyphylla. Transplant the plant into a new container after removing as much of the old soil from the roots as possible without damaging the roots. You should add additional soil and pat it vigorously around the roots.
Aloe polyphylla has been designated an endangered species and it is illegal to remove the plant or seed from its natural habitat or purchase illegally removed plants or seeds. Always make sure you are sourcing your factory from a reputable and licensed retailer.