Aloe ferox (Cape Aloe, Bitter Aloe)

Aloe ferox is a tall, single stemmed Aloe up to 10 ft tall with a wide distribution in the South African Cape, Southern KwaZulu-Natal, Lesotho and the Free State, in grasslands and bush in both Summer and Winter rainfall areas.
 
Left: Aloe ferox flowering at the Kokerboomkwekery, Van Rhynsdorp. Xmas 1998
 
The large 3ft, tapering, fleshy, grey-green leaves with reddish-brown toothed margins are arranged in a dense rosette. Teeth may be present on the leaf surfaces, especially in immature plants. Old leaves remain as protective felting on the stem, leading to a rather untidy appearance.
 
The flowers in various shades of orange are carried well above the leaves on candelabra-like heads with up to ten dense flower spikes. Copious production of nectar makes the flowers attractive to birds, insects and monkeys.
 
Left: Aloe ferox in scrub near Robertson. Xmas 1998

Aloe ferox is the source of "Bitter Aloes," the yellow juice from just under the skin, which is a powerful purgative. The gel within the middle of the leaves has similar soothing properties to that of A. vera.
 
Aloe ferox is an impressive feature plant for a Mediterranean climate, or as a container plant if it can be given Winter protection. However it is grown, it needs full sun and free-draining soil to prosper.
 
Left: Aloe ferox on typical habitat of rocky slopes, near Robertson. Xmas 1998. Note large invasive Opuntia sp. middle left.