Aloe gariepensis

Gariep River Aloe
White spotted leaves turn crimson with summer stress and have sharp marginal spines. Short trunked and seldom suckering. Upright yellow to orange flower in winter.
Aloe gariepensisAloe gariepensisAloe gariepensis
height 2–3ft
width 1–3ft
tolerates Drought, Deer , Gophers, Heat, Pots, Rooftops, Neglect, Wind
water
needs		 Low
water
info		 Aloes thrive on neglect, making them one of the easiest garden plants for California. They are drought-tolerant, and most will not need additional water once established in your garden. Most aloes will be plump with many bright vibrant blue or green leaves during their growth season. It’s natural for these same plants to show stress during their dry season, often turning shades of red, orange or brown, giving added seasonal interest to the succulent garden. During this time the leaves will curl in on themselves, and often shrivel up and shed from the base. If you prefer a lush look, watering once dry will keep them plump. Avoid overhead watering in the crown; when water collects there, it may lead to crown rot.
hardy
to		 22F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose 1/2 Strength, Low Needs
origin Namibia
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 12–16, 18–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

OUTDOOR EXPOSURE GUIDE

Full Sun
Six or more hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Shade
Three to five hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Sun
One to two hours of sun beams directly landing on the plants leaves.

Full Shade
The plant is never fully lit by sun beams, but is in a bright spot or has dappled sunbeams playing over the leaves throughout the day.

Deep Shade
The plant never has dappled light on the leaves, and is in a place that feels dim, even on a nice sunny day.

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

This aloe will retain the dried lower leaves to create an armed ‘beard’ or ‘skirt’ that helps defend the plant from predation. If you prefer, this beard may be removed by briskly rubbing off the old leaves. This is an aesthetic consideration that won’t affect the plant either way. Leaving the dead lower leaves from the beginning can create a picturesque natural look.
Once the flower stalks are completely bloomed out and dry, they will come out with a light tug, or can be pruned off low in the crown.

Special Interest

Grows in the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa that is often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Africa’.

Hummingbirds love aloes, many of which are pollinated by birds in their native habitat.

This aloe is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Just let them dry for a week and then plant in well-drained soil.

More Info

The amazing photos of this plant in habitat were taken by our staff member Tyson Curtis on his visit to the Fish River Canyon in Namibia. It shows the wonderful red drought stress this plant displays in full summer sun and also how it appreciates sharp drainage.