Multi-stemmed branching South African aloe forming a 2–3 m shrub with rosettes of toothed grey-green leaves at the branch tips and abundant orange-red conical flower spikes in winter.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 9–11 | −6.7 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H2 | 1 °C to 5 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 3–7 | −5 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Native to a wide range across southeastern Africa from South Africa to Malawi — adapted to rocky cliff faces ("krantz" in Afrikaans)
- Distinct from A. vera and A. ferox — A. arborescens is branching and shrub-forming rather than rosette or tree-trunked
- Winter-flowering — major sunbird nectar source, plants are striking in dry winter landscapes
- Hedge planting is traditional in South Africa — dense, thorny, virtually impenetrable
Pet caution: Krantz aloe (Candelabra aloe) is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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Related plants
Cross-check Krantz aloe (Candelabra aloe) against your zones