Aloe conifera Twirl

Aloe conifera 'Twirl' is a beautiful variety of aloe from Madagascar that is characterised by leaves bordered with particularly developed and decorative red-orange spines. This succulent plant is rare in cultivation. It forms a rosette composed of large, curved leaves with a satin slate colour and salmon-pink reflections, which spiral over time. Its unique winter flowering, resembling corn cobs perched on thick stalks, adds to its exotic charm. It is hardy to -4°C (24.8°F), and is therefore mainly grown in pots to be stored during winter, like a cactus. It is worth noting that it likes the sun but not excessive heat. It prefers perfectly drained or even dry soils.

Aloe conifera 'Twirl' belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. The wild species, A. conifera, grows in a very thin layer of soil covering granite rocks of Mount Rovotary in Madagascar at altitudes between 1300 and 1500m (4265 and 4921ft). The species name, conifera, refers to the shape of the developing flower spike, which somewhat resembles a pine cone. The plant usually develops into a single rosette, measuring about 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in) in all directions. The plant has a short basal stem that does not exceed 10cm (4in) in height. Its growth is quite fast, reaching its adult size in 3 or 4 years. Its leaves are very thick, narrow near the stem, very wide in the centre, tapering to a rounded point. They are bordered with large, reddish curved spines. The lamina is grey-green with a slight bluish tint, turning salmon-pink or even purple under intense sunlight. The leaves, numbering from 12 to 24 on adult plants, are beautifully arranged in a spiral. In February-March, a thick flowering stem usually emerges from the centre of the mature rosette, measuring 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in height. It is generally unbranched but sometimes bears two branches. At its apex, a cylindrical inflorescence shaped like a brush is formed, adorned with numerous small bright yellow flowers measuring 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) in length and 3.5cm (1in) in diameter. This flowering emits a sweet fragrance. The rosette does not die after flowering and can live for many years.

Aloe conifera 'Twirl' is easily grown in a pot to decorate a patio or balcony. It also works well as an indoor plant. It will be a rare addition to a collection of succulent plants. Place the plant in a wider than tall pot to fully appreciate its unique charm, and use well-draining substrate, such as cactus soil, allowing it to dry between waterings. In winter, watering should be greatly reduced. 

About Agaves and Aloes

Aloes and agaves look alike but belong to two different botanical families, the Asphodelaceae and the Asparagaceae. The main difference between them lies in the fact that the rosettes of aloes flower for many years, while the flowering of a mature agave rosette marks the end of its life. In certain species of aloes, interfoliar buds give rise to new plants that cover the dried remains of the mother plant. In agaves, the central flower stalk develops from the terminal bud. In aloes, the flower buds arise between the leaves. Agaves are native to North America, while aloes are found only in the southern half of Africa and in the nearby islands of the Indian Ocean.