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| How do you grow the Spiral Aloe - Aloe polyphylla? |
Native to the South African Drakensberg mountains situated in the Kingdom of Lesotho, the Spiral Aloe - Aloe polyphylla is a gorgeously architectural and surprisingly hardy evergreen succulent perennial. Looking at it at face value, Aloe polyphylla is very similar in looks and habit to many of the smaller, more tender and fancier Agave species and cultivars such as Agave Victoriae-Reginae and A. filifera. However, despite its exotic African origins, Aloe polyphylla is regularly subjected to being covered in deep snow as well as experiencing very high levels of summer rainfall. Two climate criteria which make it an almost perfect match for growing in southern English gardens. So how do you grow the Spiral Aloe - Aloe polyphylla?
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| Aloe polyphylla |
Anyway, assuming you have purchased a specimen, what do you do with it? Well its quite simple really, plant Aloe polyphylla in a sheltered position which receives full sun. A south facing or west facing site will be perfect. The soil will need to be well drained so add horticultural grit-sand to the soil before planting to help avoid water-logging. Water moderately when in growth from spring to early autumn, but then only very sparingly when dormant over the later autumn, winter and early spring. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times during the growing season. For best results when planting, slightly angle the plant to ensure rainwater runs freely from the crown.
When growing further north, plant under glass in a loam-based potting compost with added extra grit.
For related articles click onto the following links:
ALOE VERA
CEROPEGIA AMPLIATA - The Bushman's Pipe
HOW TO GROW THE HARDY ALOE - Aloe striatula
HOW TO GROW ALOE VERA
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