Aloe striatula

Vigorous, upright clumping grower, easily kept desired size through pruning, yellow flowers with a tinge of green in summer. Cold-hardy.
height 3–6ft
width 2–3ft
tolerates Cold, Drought, Gophers, Heat, Narrow Planting, Pots, Rooftops, Neglect, Wind
water
needs		 Lowest
water
info		 This aloe is one of the most drought tolerant, while simultaneously being one of the most lush looking. It easily thrives in coastal California without supplemental water, even in warm sunny spots. The head will be fuller if given additional water during dry months.
hardy
to		 15F
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 SE South Africa
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 8, 9, 12–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

This small, trunking 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. This aloe tends to look best with the beard removed, exposing a thin smooth trunk.
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.
If cut to the ground this aloe will come back vigorously, with many new heads to replace the single head that was removed.

Special Interest

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 with at least a foot of trunk into well-drained soil. When planted in the fall one wet winter is usually enough to get this aloe established with no supplemental water the following summer.