Aloe broomii Schönland
Mountain aloe (snake aloe)
Aloe broomii is recognisable by its characteristic cylindrical inflorescence densely covered in straw-coloured bracts, giving a coiled-snake appearance ("snake aloe"). It forms large solitary rosettes on an erect stem in the mountain karoo grasslands. Its yellow tubular flowers are nearly hidden beneath the bracts, being pollinated mainly by bees entering from below.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Large rosette on erect stem, solitary |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Dolomitic or calcareous very well-draining soil |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate leaves 60–80 cm long, glaucous-green, with horny marginal teeth 4–6 mm and slightly reddish margins.
ecoRobust stem 30–80 cm covered with leaf remnants in mature plants.
ecoYellow tubular flowers 3 cm long, nearly completely hidden by straw-coloured bracts; very dense cylindrical inflorescence 30–60 cm long.
ecoDeep and robust root system adapted to the rocky soils of the mountain karoo.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Dolomitic or calcareous very well-draining soil
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in well-draining rocky substrate at 16–20 °C.
- 2 Water with a mister until germination.
- 3 Germinates in 3–6 weeks.
- 4 Slow growth: 4–5 years for the first visible stem.
- 1 Separate the rare basal offsets when available.
- 2 Allow to dry for 3–4 days.
- 3 Plant in very well-draining calcareous substrate.
- 4 They root slowly in 8–12 weeks.
The most cold-tolerant aloe; can be grown in central Europe with good water protection.
Watering in winter rain without cover, causing rapid rot.
Every 4–5 years; prefers permanent garden soil
Very diluted mineral fertilizer (¼ dose), once in spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Toxic if ingested.
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"The bracts covering the inflorescence protect flowers from extreme mountain karoo night cold; this system is unique within the genus Aloe and was described by Schönland in 1903."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.