	synonyms	Kumara plicatilis
	height	2–5ft
	width	3–6ft
	tolerates	Coast, Cool Summers, Drought, Gophers, Pots, Rooftops, 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 this one will not need additional water once established in the coastal garden. The fan aloe sheds lower leaves with excessive drought leaving a sparse crown. A fan aloe that is not shedding its leaves is likely overwatered, and risking root rot. Black crispy tips of the leaves can be a sign of over OR under watering so be sure to check the soil if the leaves are getting crispy, though this plant is forgiving of overwatering if drainage is sharp.
	hardy to	25F
	exposure	Part Sun – 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	SW South Africa
	california native	No
	sunset zones	16, 17, 21–24

Growing Notes

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.

Lower leaves shed on their own, leaving a clean smooth trunk, that will become thick and textured over time. If lower black leaves are clinging to the trunk they are easily rubbed off.

Pruning Aloe plicatilis will expose the punky inner structure and wounds are slow to heal.

Difficult, but not impossible to root. Let a cutting sit for three weeks to a month in a bright but indirect sun area. Plant in pure pumice or other drainage and water every two weeks until the cutting is well rooted. Then plant in cactus mix. Older thick cuttings tend to fail more often than the fresh smooth branches.

Excellent choice for big pots where they thrive long term.

Aloe plicatilis

Growing Notes

Special Interest

Links