Aloe tomentosa - 3ga

Aloe tomentosa, commonly known as Hairy Green Aloe, is a large, generally solitary aloe native to the highlands of Yemen and Saudi Arabia. It forms a broad rosette of thick, rigid, gray-green to pale green leaves, typically reaching 16–20 inches long, with small teeth along the margins. Mature plants grow approximately 2 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide. The species grows naturally in rocky mountain habitats at high elevations and is particularly notable for its intricately branched flower stalks, which can carry dozens of densely packed racemes covered in woolly hairs. The flowers are typically greenish-yellow to chartreuse, although orange, pink, and yellow forms have also been reported. Flowering may occur in summer, and the dense white hairs can give the flower clusters a pale, almost woolly appearance. Aloe tomentosa performs best in well-drained soil and appreciates regular moisture during warm-season growth, with reduced watering as plants establish. It can be grown in the ground or in containers, in full sun in cooler climates or with some afternoon protection in hotter areas. Propagation is by seed, and young seedlings require careful watering to avoid rot. Despite its mountainous Arabian origin, the species has shown notable cold tolerance in California gardens, with reported survival in some locations around 19°F, although this should not be considered a guaranteed minimum. Its broad foliage and unusual, woolly flower clusters make it a distinctive choice for dry gardens, rock gardens, and containers where excellent drainage can be maintained.

Sources:

• Carter et al. (2011), p. 341.
  
• San Marcos Growers
  
• Llifle: Encyclopedia of Succulents
  
• Aloes in Wonderland — Aloe Gallery