False Aloe (Manfreda virginica): A Native Surprise

Rescued from a building lot before grading, these puzzling plants turned out to be false aloe (Manfreda virginica), a native perennial with succulent, spineless leaves and modest flower spikes. Though not showy, they add delicate texture to dry, sunny beds.

How they arrived on the site is anyone’s guess—seed dispersal by wildlife or remnant populations from prior habitat. Kudos to the nursery staff and county extension agents who collaborated on the identification.