Aloe thraskii

dune aloe
Dune aloe. Branched stalks of dense orange-yellow flowers in winter. Large, wide leaves are gracefully recurved on large crown. A focal point in the garden.
Aloe thraskii
height 6–12ft
width 4–5ft
tolerates Coast, Drought, Gophers, Pots, Neglect, Salt, Wind
water
needs		 Low
water
info		 Aloes thrive on neglect, making them one of the easiest garden plants for California. They are drought-tolerant though this one likes a deep watering every couple weeks during dry months. 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		 29F
exposure Full 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 South Africa
sunset
zones		 17, 21–24

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

Aloe thraskii 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.
When the top of the trunk is removed it will root, but the bottom will often die.

Special Interest

Naturally grows in sandy dunes along the coast, making it perfect for coastal California. The photo of the large plant in habitat was taken in South Africa by our staff member Tyson Curtis.