Aloe broomii (Snake Aloe)

One of the most Ornamental Aloes, Aloe broomii (Snake Aloe) is a robust, evergreen succulent perennial forming a large, short-stemmed, dense rosette of light green leaves, 1 ft. long (30 cm). They are adorned with reddish brown teeth along the edges, which curl interestingly along the outer edges of each leaf. This Aloe develops a stunning, densely flowered, candle-like inflorescence, 4-5 ft. tall (120-150 cm), in which the buds and pale lemon flowers are covered by white long bracts. This makes this Aloe quite unique as the buds and open flowers are completely hidden by their large bracts and cannot be seen. Snake Aloe is usually solitary, but occasionally the heads divide to form groups of up to 3 rosettes. It is an ideal water-wise plant, perfectly suited to arid and semi-arid regions, and it is frost resistant. It makes an excellent focal point and is a good choice for rock gardens.

• Fast-growing, this species can reach full size in 5 or 6 years (if given adequate growing conditions) and grows up to 18-36 in. tall and wide (45-90 cm), 5 ft. tall including the inflorescence.
• Easily grown in sandy or gravelly, well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. Provide the newly planted Aloe with regular deep waterings for the first few weeks to encourage strong root growth. Established plants can take care of themselves as they store water in their leaves and are well adapted to an arid environment.
• Great for beds and borders, rock gardens, succulent gardens, or Mediterranean gardens. Ideal as an accent plant in sunny borders or in decorative containers.
• Deer resistant. The flowers produce nectar and are attractive to birds and bees
• Virtually disease free. Watch for snout weevil, scale infestation, and fungal infections
• This plant is propagated from seed.
• Native to South Africa