Reitz' Aloe, Aloe reitzii 5 seeds. Free Shipping!
Germination: Seeds usually sprout quickly when given the right care.
Growing Conditions:
Light: Needs full sunlight.
Soil: Likes well-drained soil and can handle sand, clay, or loam.
Water: Requires little water; water infrequently to occasionally.
Plant Characteristics
Height: Reaches about 2-3 feet tall.
Width: Can extend 3-4 feet wide.
Flowers: Blooms red flowers in summer, which is rare for aloes that generally flower in winter.
Hardiness: Tolerates temperatures as low as 20-25°F, making it ideal for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Aloe reitzii is a stemless plant that hails from the grasslands of Mpumalanga in South Africa. It has a stunning look with a single rosette that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant's strong build is enhanced by its long, broad silvery blue-green leaves that have reddish teeth along the edges. This aloe loves the sun and grows slowly, taking about 5-10 years to reach the point where it can flower. In the summer, it showcases cylindrical clusters of dark red to orange-red flowers, with each stem standing tall above the leaves for a breathtaking view. What’s interesting is that Aloe reitzii flowers in the summer, unlike most aloes that bloom in winter, making it a great option for gardens that might experience frost. Its unique flowering pattern sets it apart from similar species like Aloe gerstneri and Aloe petricola. This plant is native to a small region near the Belfast district of Mpumalanga and is an important part of South Africa's plant life, with a winter-blooming variant found in the Vryheid District. It was named after Francis William Reitz, who was the former Minister of Agriculture in South Africa. Aloe reitzii does well in gardens, as it can withstand both frost and fire in its natural environment. You can propagate it from seeds, but be prepared for a wait, as plants grown from seeds can take up to seven years to mature and flower. With its ability to survive down to 20°F, it makes a colorful addition to dry gardens or can be used as a striking container plant, bringing a pop of color to the early autumn scenery.
