Mountain Aloe (Aloe broomii): A Robust, Rosette-Forming Aloe with Unique Hidden Flowers

Mountain Aloe, or Snake Aloe, forms a large, solitary rosette of thick, light green leaves edged with reddish-brown teeth. Its most peculiar feature is the inflorescence: a dense, conical raceme where the flowers are completely hidden by large, overlapping bracts, giving it a snake-like appearance. Only the stamens and style protrude. Native to South Africa’s highveld, it tolerates frost and drought, making it a resilient garden subject.

Taxonomic Profile

Culture

Full sun to light shade. Well-drained soil. Water moderately in summer, keep dry in winter. Hardy to 20°F (-7°C). Excellent focal point in rock gardens or large containers. Slow-growing but long-lived.