Aloe arborescens Mill. Krantz Aloe, Candelabra Aloe, Octopus Plant or Torch Plant This shrubby succulent perennial was one of the earliest Aloe to be cultivated, by Philip Miller in the Chelsea Physic Garden in the late 18th century and is widespread now in gardens. In the wild in southern Africa, from Malawi and Zimbabwe as far south as Caledon in South Africa, it grows in bushland and open forest. It forms large clumps of branching stems and the tall spikes of red or yellow flowers, 4cm (1 ½in) long, each on a thin stalk, are produced in midwinter. The sword-shaped, bluish green, wavy-edged leaves, 50–60cm (20–24in) long, 5–7cm (2-3in) wide, are in spreading rosettes and have short teeth.
Cultivation This is one of the most tolerant species, drought-resistant but accepting rain at any time of year. It also survives salt winds from the sea. It grows well on dry rocks and cliffs, for instance on the Mediterranean coast. Plant it in poor rocky soil.
Height and spread to 3m (10ft). USZ 10–11, surviving -1°C (30°F) of overnight frost. Tolerant of summer drought.