Aloe excelsa

Reference only - not in production

Aloe excelsa, also known as the Zimbabwe Aloe, is a single-stemmed tree-like succulent that grows on granite outcrops or steep rocky slopes, reaching heights of 10-20 feet. It features a solitary large rosette of succulent dull green leaves with red-brown sharp teeth on leaf margins and undersides. This tall aloe often reaches tree dimensions of 5–6 meters, with stems up to 6 meters high, woody and covered in dried leaves except for the lowermost part. Its leaves form a compact rosette of dull blue-green leaves, spreading and becoming recurved, up to 1 meter long. Aloe excelsa produces a showy candelabra-like inflorescence, growing to 4 1/2 feet tall and branched into 10 to 15 racemes in late winter through early spring, with deep crimson-red to orange-red tubular flowers. Originating from southern and central Africa, it grows at altitudes of up to 1 mile, particularly around the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. This species, granted tree status in South Africa, thrives with ample water during its warm season, benefiting from good drainage and a dry period in winter. It tolerates light frost and makes an attractive addition to warmer gardens, though it remains rare in cultivation.