Bitter Aloe (Aloe ferox): A Majestic, Single-Stemmed Aloe with Medicinal Sap

Bitter Aloe, also called Cape Aloe or Red Aloe, is a large, single-stemmed tree aloe that can reach 10 feet tall. It bears a dense rosette of thick, fleshy, blue-green leaves armed with reddish-brown teeth on the margins and surfaces. In winter, a massive, candle-like raceme of orange-red flowers rises above the foliage. The bitter, yellow sap (aloe bitters) has been harvested for centuries as a laxative and for skin products. Native to South Africa, it’s a striking landscape specimen.

Taxonomic Profile

Growing Conditions

Full sun. Well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant. Hardy to 20°F (-7°C). The sap is commercially valuable; leaves are sustainably harvested. Excellent as a focal point in large, dry gardens. Attracts birds and insects.