Aloe Crosby's Prolific

Plant Type: perennial, succulent
Plant Height: 6–12 inches
Spread: 9–15 inches
Flower Color: orange
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Candy Aloe / Aloe ‘Crosby’s Prolific’ (Aloe humilis × Aloe nobilis hybrid): Compact Clumping Beauty
Aloe ‘Crosby’s Prolific’ is a charming miniature hybrid combining Aloe humilis and Aloe nobilis parentage. It forms tight rosettes of lance-shaped, deep green leaves edged with translucent teeth. Under strong light or mild stress, the foliage may flush with warm tones. In winter through spring, tall spikes bear vibrant orange tubular blooms, adding color to rock gardens, succulent collections, or mixed beds.

Key Features of Aloe ‘Crosby’s Prolific’
This aloe readily offsets to form dense clumps over time. Its narrow leaves often carry small white spots or mottling, and the margins show gentle teeth that are not too aggressive. Flower stalks can reach about 12–18 inches in height, showcasing clusters of orange blooms that attract pollinators. Its compact habit makes it ideal for containers, edging, or tight succulent compositions.

Growing and Care Tips
‘Crosby’s Prolific’ thrives in full sun but will tolerate light afternoon shade. It requires exceptionally well-draining soil — sandy, rocky, or gritty mixes are ideal. During the first season, water lightly but deeply every 10–14 days, allowing the soil to dry thoroughly between waterings. Once established, reduce irrigation dramatically—this plant favors dry conditions. Fertilizer is optional; a light feeding with cactus/succulent formula in spring can boost vigor. Protect from frost and excessive winter moisture.

Landscaping Uses
Use this aloe as a compact accent in rock gardens, succulent borders, or container arrangements. Its small size and clumping habit make it perfect for close-up viewing or tight spaces. Grouping several together form a textural mat. It pairs beautifully with silvery succulents, darker stones, or plants with bold forms for contrast.

Summary
Aloe ‘Crosby’s Prolific’ is a delightful, low-maintenance hybrid with strong ornamental appeal — fiery blooms, compact form, and clustering growth. Ideal for Arizona landscapes seeking color and structure without needing extensive space or care.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
‘Crosby’s Prolific’ Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of light; filtered afternoon shade helps in intense heat)
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or rocky mix — do not allow water to remain near the base
Spacing: Space plants 9–15 inches apart to allow clump expansion and airflow
Planting Depth: Set the crown level with or just above soil surface to avoid moisture accumulation
Support: No staking required; rosettes are self-supporting

Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly once after planting to settle soil and remove air pockets. Wait until soil is dry before next irrigation. During first 2–3 months, irrigate lightly every 10–14 days depending on conditions.
When is the Plant Established? Approximately 6 months, when roots are well anchored and leaf growth becomes consistent.
Watering Once Established: Once established, water sparingly — during summer, only in prolonged droughts (every 3–4 weeks). In winter, supplemental watering is rarely needed unless the soil is very dry.
Drip Irrigation Setup: Place emitters 6–8 inches from rosette center to avoid wetting the crown. Use low-flow (0.5–1 gph) emitters and allow soil to dry fully between cycles. One emitter per plant is enough.
General Watering Tips: Always verify soil dryness before watering — avoid overwatering, which may lead to rot. Use coarse gravel or rock mulch to reduce moisture loss and suppress weeds, keeping mulch off the rosette base to encourage airflow.