Aloe polyphylla is a mesmerizing succulent. Many growers consider it the most beautiful aloe because of the unique spiral formation of it leaves which has a greyish-green color. This is why the succulent is also called “Spiral Aloe”. Its name, “polyphylla” is derived from 2 Greek words – “poly” which means “many” and “phylla” or “leaves”.The spiral formation of Aloe polyphylla is its most striking feature and is the main reason why growers are motivated to plant it in their respective gardens. Whether the spiral moves clockwise or counter-clockwise, the leaves are arranged in a way that the spiral looks perfect.Each turn of the spiral has around 15 to 30 leaves. The leaves of Spiral Aloe are wide and have sharply-pointed tips that are purplish-brown in color. The succulent produces salmon-pink colored flowers in the spring and early summer.Aloe polyphylla originates from the Aloaceae family and is native to the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho. It can grow up to 12-inches (30cm) in height. Because of the high demand for this succulent plant and its specific requirements for growing, Spiral Aloe has been listed as an endangered species.
The leaves of Spiral Aloe are thick because it stores water. This type of succulent needs less water than other varieties.Give Aloe polyphylla water only when its soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering the plant will cause its roots to rot.During the wintertime, reduce the frequency of watering as the soil tends to retain moisture longer.
In warm climates, Aloe polyphylla thrives under full to partial sun. If you want to grow Spiral aloe in your garden, look for an area that receives 6 hours of morning sunlight every day.
For plants having been in the same pot for more than a year, apply a liquid fertilizer a couple of times during the growing season. Follow the directions on the fertilizer packaging. There is no need to dilute by half as you would with most succulents because this plant likes frequent watering, so the fertilizer will be washed away over time.
The best soil for Aloe polyphylla is a variety that is well-aerated with excellent draining properties, free of lime and has a soil pH factor of 5.5 to 6.0.A good combination is 1 part potting soil to 1 part pumice or lava rock with around 25% horticultural sand added to the mix.
After several years of growth, “Spiral Aloe” will produce an offset. This can be separated from the main plant using a sterile knife.Wear gloves and use care when removing the offset, as the leaves are sharp. After removal, clean the bottom of the plant, allow it to callous over, and plant in well-draining soil.
“Spiral Aloe” is not cold hardy until it is mature, so if you live in a zone that gets colder than 30° F (-1.1° C), it’s best to plant younger specimens in a container that can be brought indoors.
For Aloe polyphylla, use a pot that has good drainage but make sure it is not a dark-colored container that has been observed to retain moisture longer than light-colored ones.
Aloe polyphylla can be toxic for cats and dogs. This variety of succulent plant has been identified as potentially poisonous when ingested by animals on the website of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).If you have Aloe polyphylla in your garden, your pet may be in danger of getting ill once it comes in contact with the plant. Look out for signs of depression, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress.
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