This plant listing for reference only. Aloe trichosantha, commonly known as Hairy-flowered Aloe, is a stemless or short-stemmed species from northeastern Africa, occurring from Eritrea to Somalia and often forming small clumps through offsets. It produces a dense rosette of 12–16 dull green leaves, sometimes marked with pale spots, that can develop darker or reddish tones and curl inward during heat and drought. The leaves reach about 16–20 inches long and 4 inches wide and have widely spaced reddish-brown teeth along their margins. Its most distinctive feature is the tall, branched inflorescence, which can reach 3–5 feet and carries cylindrical racemes of coral-pink flowers covered in conspicuous white hairs. Flowering generally occurs from late winter through spring, although timing can vary in cultivation. The species grows naturally on rocky slopes, stony ground, and open deciduous bushland at elevations from about 1,700 to 6,400 feet. It is closely related to Aloe pubescens, but its flowers have more conspicuous white pubescence. Aloe trichosantha is relatively easy to grow in well-drained soil and tolerates full sun, some shade, and relatively infrequent watering. It is suitable for rock gardens, dry landscapes, succulent collections, and containers, where its tall flowering stems can be displayed above the foliage. Sources: Carter et al. (2011), p. 279. Guildford Cycads — Aloe Species Articles
