Aloe speciosa, commonly known as tilt-head aloe, is a large tree-like succulent aloe plant in the Asphodelaceae family. Aloe speciosa is native to the cape of South Africa where it is found growing in thickets. The main stem of the plant grows between 8 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. The leaves are more narrow than most species in the genus and have brownish red fleshy spines on their margin. Aloe speciosa, like other aloe, has a rosette growth pattern however the rosette usually tilts towards the greatest exposure to sun (North) giving this species its common name. A. speciosa blooms in the winter with many small bright red and white flowers that congregate together in a raceme cone. This species is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its large size and flower color. Aloe speciosa grows best in well draining sandy soil, sitting in full sun to partial shade. Water the plant adequately during summer and sparingly during winter. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 10b.
Aloe speciosa seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown directly on top of the potting mixture and lightly covered with a thin layer of sand or potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 5 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.