Aloe dichotoma
Aloe dichotoma
Safety & Hazards
The bark on the trunk forms beautiful golden brown scales, but beware, the edges of these scales are razor sharp[1]. The sap of Aloe species contains anthraquinones. These compounds have several beneficial medicinal actions, particularly as a laxative, and many species of Aloe are thus employed in traditional medicine. Whilst safe in small doses and for short periods of time, anthraquinones do have potential problems if used in excess. These include congestion and irritation of the pelvic organs[2]. Long term use of anthraquinone laxatives may also play a role in development of colorectal cancer as they have genotoxic potential, and tumorigenic potential[2].
Cultivation Details
A plant of arid areas in the tropics and subtropics. It can tolerate occasional, short-lived temperatures as low as -5°c so long as conditions are not wet[3, 4]. The trunk is not as hardy as the leaves and benefits from some protection in colder weather[3]. Succeeds in full sun to light shade[3]. Requires a well-drained soil[3]. Established plants are drought tolerant[3]. Trees can live for over 80 years[1]. Aloe species follow the Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). CAM plants can fix carbon dioxide at night and photosynthesize with closed stomata during the day, thus minimizing water loss. This, plus their succulent leaves and stems, and the presence of a thick cuticle, makes them well adapted to dry conditions[2].
Propagation
Seed - we have no specific information on this species - in general Aloes are sown in a sandy, well-drained potting soil in a warm, shady position in standard seed trays. Germination takes about three weeks. Cover the seed with a thin layer of sand (1 - 2mm), keep moist. The seedlings can be planted out in individual bags or containers as soon as they are large enough to handle[1]. Truncheons can be used for propagation. They must be dried out for at least 3 weeks before planting in river sand. This is quite a difficult alternative and success is not always guaranteed[1]. Cite as: Tropical Plants Database, Ken Fern. tropical.theferns.info. 2026-02-19. <tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Aloe+dichotoma>
Pollinators
Sunbirds
References
- [1]PlantZAfrica.com — http://www.plantzafrica.com ↩︎An excellent site giving detailed descriptions and uses of many S. African plants.
- [2]Protabase - Plant Resources of Tropical Africa. — http://www.prota.org ↩︎An excellent on-line database with detailed information on over 3,200 species of useful plants of Africa.
- [3]Desert Tropicals — http://www.desert-tropicals.com/ ↩︎The main focus of the site is succulent plants, but it also contains information on a wide range of other species. Usually at least one good photograph, plus basic information about the plant and its cultivation.
- [4]Flora of Southern Africa — Roux J.P. · 2003 · http://plants.jstor.org/search?st=662545 ↩︎An excellent on-line resource.
- [5]Flora and Fauna of Africa — http://www.gateway-africa.com/fuanaflora/index.html ↩︎Contains photos and basic information on the plant and its uses. So far just over 70 species appear on the site, though they say that it is a work in progress.