Along the trails of Desert Botanical Garden, vibrant flowers of a variety of aloe species give way to a radiant show.
Winters are the best time to catch many aloe species in bloom. Shades of often in reds, oranges and yellows brighten up the Garden.
Most aloes are native to the African mainland. There are more than 500 species. Their forms include arborescent (tree-like), stemless, clumping or solitary and range in height from six inches to 60 feet.
The Garden has a large collection of aloes, including a dedicated space outside of the Succulent Gallery.
Grab your tickets online for the best price and hit the trails to see these flowering plants.
Below are some species you might see in bloom on your next visit. Plus, check out our Aloe Gardening Guide here.
Aloe x ‘Hercules’
This large hybrid tree can be spotted inside the Succulent Gallery, with orange tubular flowers. These aloes can reach a height of 20 feet. This towering aloe is a result of cross between the A. bainesii and A. dichotoma species.
Red Hot Poker Aloe (Aloe aculeata)
With a striking reddish orange tubular flower, this aloe is a something you can’t miss when it’s in bloom at the Garden. Native to South Africa, these succulents often grow in rocky areas. When they are in bloom, guests can find hummingbirds and other pollinators near these plants. Its Latin name means prickly in reference to its spiky leaves. The plant also has historically appeared on South African currency.
Quiver Tree (A. dichotoma)
This aloe tree is a unique succulent that captures the attention of most guests. Native to Southern Africa, this aloe has a trunk and fleshy leaves. Guests can witness a cluster of them outside of the Succulent Gallery. When they all bloom in synchrony, flashes of yellow will appear atop–a gorgeous site pair with the landscape around it. These aloes store water in their fleshy leaves and trunks.
Spire Aloe (A. cryptopoda)
One of the earliest aloes to bloom, guests can find clusters of this species outside of the Succulent Gallery. Splashes of brilliant reds and yellow and oranges make up their flowers. It’s Latin name means hidden foot in reference to the flower stalks, which are hidden by the leafy bracts.
