African/Tiger Aloe

Plant Type: Aloes
Plant Height: 12-18 inches
Spread: 18-24 inches
Flower Color: orange-red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Aloe variegata (Tiger Aloe) – A Striking, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Arizona Landscapes

Aloe variegata, commonly known as Tiger Aloe or African Aloe, is a compact and beautifully patterned succulent, ideal for small garden spaces and container gardens. This aloe typically grows to 12 to 18 inches in height and spreads 18 to 24 inches, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor settings. Its distinct leaf banding and compact size make it a standout among succulent enthusiasts.

Key Features of Aloe variegata:

• Striking Leaf Pattern: The dark green, fleshy leaves of Aloe variegata are adorned with light green to white banding, resembling tiger stripes, which give the plant its distinctive ornamental appeal.
• Drought Tolerant: Native to South Africa and Namibia, the Tiger Aloe thrives in arid environments and requires minimal water, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardens in Arizona.
• Compact Size: Growing to 12-18 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide, Aloe variegata is perfect for small garden spaces, rock gardens, or as a container plant on windowsills or patios.

Perfect for Xeriscaping and Container Gardens

The Tiger Aloe is an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and container gardening. Its compact size and bold leaf pattern make it a versatile option for succulent collections and low-maintenance landscapes.

• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, Aloe variegata thrives with minimal watering and prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Its drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance option for water-efficient gardening.
• User-Friendly Plant: The smooth leaf margins of the Tiger Aloe make it a safe and easy-to-care-for addition to indoor plant collections or outdoor rock gardens.
• Compact & Versatile: With its striking tiger-striped leaves and modest size, Aloe variegata is ideal for small spaces, patios, or as a container plant that can be appreciated up close.

Why Choose Aloe variegata for Your Arizona Garden?

• Drought Tolerant: Perfect for xeriscaping and low-water-use landscapes, Aloe variegata thrives in arid environments with minimal water, making it ideal for Arizona’s dry climate.
• Ornamental Appeal: The tiger stripe pattern on its leaves adds a unique decorative element to rock gardens, succulent collections, or windowsill displays.
• Low-Maintenance: With its drought tolerance and minimal care needs, this aloe is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking water-efficient and visually interesting plants.

Vibrant Winter Blooms

In late winter to early spring, Aloe variegata produces tall spikes of vibrant orange-red flowers, which add a splash of color to the garden. These flower spikes rise above the foliage, creating a beautiful contrast with the tiger-striped leaves and attracting pollinators such as bees.

Planting & Care Tips

Aloe variegata thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Once established, it requires minimal watering, especially in the cooler months, making it a highly drought-tolerant option for xeriscapes, succulent gardens, and container plantings.

The Aloe variegata (Tiger Aloe) is a compact, drought-tolerant succulent that adds both beauty and resilience to Arizona landscapes. Its tiger-striped leaves, vibrant flowers, and low water requirements make it a valuable addition to xeriscaping, rock gardens, and container plantings in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): African/Tiger Aloe

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (avoid heavy, clay-based soils)
• Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No support required; this plant is self-supporting and grows in a compact rosette shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2 weeks, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture retention
• Watering Amount: Provide about 1 inch of water per session to ensure the roots are well-established

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: The African/Tiger Aloe is considered established after 6-8 weeks when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins to grow steadily

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. Provide about 1 inch of water per session. Be mindful of overwatering, as this plant is drought-tolerant.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks, depending on rainfall. During winter dormancy, the plant requires very little water.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check soil moisture regularly. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: The African/Tiger Aloe is drought-tolerant and prefers slightly dry conditions. Ensure the soil drains well and do not let the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but avoid piling mulch directly against the plant’s stem.