Family: Aloe (Asphodelacea) Hardy to Zone 9 to 10. Widely grown as a potted plant indoors or on the summer patio (Tiger Aloe, Partridge Breast Aloe, Kanniedood, Bontalwyn) (Syn. Gonialoe variegata) Succulent perennial native to rocky landscapes throughout South Africa and Namibia. Leaves very thick, dark green with horizontal bands of white, arranged in a fan shape, giving rise to club-like flowers to 12 inches tall, colored orange. This is one of the most popular of potted houseplants in Europe, and performs very well on a sunny window. As with all aloes, growing these indoors will assist in filtering the air and producing oxygen. Ethnobotanical reports on this species: the plant will flower even if not in contact with the soil/rock of its native habitat. The plant is hung in the hut of a young woman, and if it flowers, locals believe that this indicates the woman’s fertility. This aloe is also commonly planted on graves where it is believed to impart eternal life. Plant prefers to grow in very dry, fast-draining and rocky soils. Standard aloe culture on the seeds–place on surface of fast-draining mix, cover with pumice, keep warm and in the light, water sparingly until the seedlings emerge. Once they size up sufficiently, individuate to pots. Protect from frost. 20 seeds per packet, Open Pollinated, Untreated, NO GMO’s
