Aloe claviflora Burch.
Kraal aloe
Aloe claviflora is a Karoo aloe from the semi-arid Northern Cape, recognisable by its prostrate rosettes with almost horizontally arranged leaves that form dense colonies in arid sandy soils. Its inflorescences characteristically lean sideways (oblique negative geotropism), giving it a very different appearance from other aloes. Dense clusters of red flowers produce abundant nectar for birds and bees.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Growth Habit | Prostrate rosette, cespitose, leaves nearly horizontal |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Dry sandy, mineral, without organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate leaves 30–50 cm long, grey-green, horizontally spreading, with white marginal teeth and a rigid terminal spine.
ecoVery short stem, practically hidden under the prostrate leaves; the plant grows flush with the ground.
ecoTubular flowers 3–3.5 cm long, scarlet red, in dense racemes on peduncles that lean obliquely 30–60° from vertical. Flowering July–September.
ecoExtensive shallow fibrous roots exploring arid sandy soils for moisture during sporadic rains.
ecochevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Dry sandy, mineral, without organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate colony offsets in spring with a clean knife.
- 2 Allow to dry for 3 days in a dry, hot environment.
- 3 Plant in coarse sand with very little initial watering.
- 4 Root in 5–7 weeks.
- 1 Sow on very loose sandy substrate at 20–24 °C.
- 2 Water lightly with spray and cover with fine gravel.
- 3 Germination in 3–5 weeks.
- 4 Transplant when seedlings are 4 cm tall.
Grow in low, wide containers to replicate the natural prostrate habit.
Watering too frequently in moisture-retaining substrate.
Every 4 years; preferably in permanent ground in xerophyte garden
No fertilisation; optionally one minimal dose of mineral fertilizer every 2 years
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; terminal spines dangerous for children and pets.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"The oblique angle of A. claviflora inflorescences (unique in the genus) has been interpreted as an adaptation to expose the racemes to the prevailing Karoo winds, facilitating visits from Cape sunbirds (Nectarinia) that fly into the wind to feed."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟡 MediumVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
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.