Aloe, there!

Free flowering, virtually pest-free and easy-care – the versatile aloe lends itself to a variety of garden styles, thrives in containers and can be grown in any climate.

Although aloes typically flower in winter, a carefully selected mix of species and cultivars can provide colour from early autumn all the way through to late spring. Their long-lasting blooms appear in vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, cream and even striking multi-tones.

The nectar-rich flowers are a magnet for insects that, in turn, attract a fantastic array of insectivorous birds. And nectar-feeding birds aren’t far behind!

Ranging in size from a tiny 20cm to a towering 20m, and suitable for a diverse range of garden styles, aloes are proving a smart choice for gardeners adapting to today’s changing climate. Here’s a preview of Claire’s top picks:

SPIRAL ALOE (A. polyphylla)
The compact, small (30cm) spiral form (pictured above) has attractive orange flowers and is ideal for pots and small gardens.

ALOE VERA
Growing 30-60cm, fleshy leaves of aloe vera (pictured below, left) contain a soothing gel that has been used for centuries in medicine and skin care.

STAR ALOE HYBRIDS
Star aloes (small, at 15cm) are dwarf hybrids prized for their colourful, textured foliage, which is often marked with bumps, stripes and ridges. They are best suited to containers (pictured below, right).

For more information on aloes, read the full article in the August issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine.