Bitter aloe (Aloe ferox) | seeds, 20 pcs.

Tolerates light frost

• Latin name: Aloe ferox
• Danish names: Bitter aloe, bitter-aloe
• English names: Cape aloe, bitter aloe
  

Aloe ferox is an impressive, solitary succulent from southern Africa, where it grows on open, sunny slopes and in semi-arid areas – particularly in South Africa and Lesotho. It is one of the most iconic aloe species and is known for both its architectural beauty and its many uses.

The plant forms a robust, single stem that can eventually reach up to 2–3 meters in height. It is crowned by a dense rosette of thick, blue-green leaves, which are often edged with reddish thorns – both along the margins and on the leaf surface in young stages. The name ferox refers to these prominent thorns and means "wild" or "fierce".

From winter to early spring, Aloe ferox blooms with up to 1-meter-tall flower spikes that bear dense clusters of tubular flowers in warm shades of orange, red, or coral. The flowers are an important food source for birds and insects in the South African wilderness and also add strong color and drama to any collection.

The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained, nutrient-poor soil. It is drought-tolerant and undemanding, but benefits from occasional watering during the growing season. It can tolerate light frost, typically down to about -5 °C, especially if kept dry and sheltered. In cooler climates, cultivation in large pots or under winter-protected conditions is recommended.

Utility:
Aloe ferox has been used for centuries in traditional South African medicine. The sap from the leaves contains bitter compounds that are used in laxatives and cleansing treatments. The gel extracted from the inside of the leaves is also used in skincare – especially for treating sunburn, minor wounds, and dry skin. Commercially, Aloe ferox is an important species in the natural cosmetics and dietary supplement industry.

Aloe ferox is a spectacular and robust plant for collectors and enthusiasts who want an aloe with both visual strength and functional value. It combines a dramatic form, vibrant flowering, and traditional utility in one impressive succulent.