Aloe pretoriensis (100 seeds)
Family: Aloaceae
Common names: Pretoria Aloe
This very hardy Aloe grows singly in dry rocky grassland in exposed positions. They can develop a stem of up to 1m tall with extreme age. The slender pale green leaves have pink tips and carried in a rosette form. The robust flower spikes are very tall and can reach 2m tall with branched spikes of red flowers which are nectar rich and are a good food source for sunbirds. Plant it in well-drained soil in full sun. Use as a single form plant or plant in groups for a stunning display. Size 1m.
Sowing instructions: Seeds germinate very well but may damp off if overwatered. Use a mixture of river sand, compost and soil to sow seeds in. Sprinkle the seeds evenly on the surface and cover with a layer of small pebbles. The pebbles help the seedlings to stay upright and prevent damping off. Keep seed tray in a dry warm corner and do not allow to dry out. Transplant the seedlings after one year.
Locality: Magaliesberg. Harvest: September 2024