Ghost Aloe

Plant Type: perennial, succulent
Plant Height: 6–8 inches
Spread: 12–18 inches
Flower Color: orange
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Ghost Aloe / Aloe ‘Ghost Aloe’: Ethereal Form and Striking Bloom
Aloe ‘Ghost Aloe’ is a beautifully refined hybrid of Aloe striata, prized for its ghost-gray to silvery-blue rosettes and vivid orange blooms. It brings both elegant form and seasonal color to low-water landscapes, containers, or accent beds in Arizona-style gardens. Its compact size and striking foliage make it especially usable where space is tight but impact is desired.

Key Features of Ghost Aloe
This aloe forms low rosettes of triangular, smooth leaves that glow with a pale, frosty hue. Under cool weather or bright light the foliage may blush with amethyst tones, adding nuance to its appearance. In late winter to early spring the plant sends up slender flower stalks carrying clusters of bright orange tubular blooms that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. The combination of subtle foliage color and bold bloom makes this plant stand out.

Growing and Care Tips
Aloe ‘Ghost Aloe’ thrives in full sun but also tolerates partial shade—especially helpful during Arizona’s hottest afternoon hours. Use very well-drained, sandy or rocky soil to avoid standing moisture around the roots. During the first few months after planting, water deeply every 10–14 days and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, irrigation should be minimal—only occasional deep watering when prolonged dryness occurs. Fertilizer is optional; a light feeding of cactus/succulent formula in spring may support stronger bloom production. Protect from hard frost or extended freezing conditions to preserve the foliage’s subtle tint.

Landscaping Uses
Ghost Aloe is ideal for container plantings, patio accents, rock gardens, or front-of-border plantings where its color can be appreciated up close. Its compact habit also makes it useful for massing in gravel beds or between larger succulents, where its pale foliage and bright blooms provide contrast. It pairs beautifully with deeper-toned succulents, charcoal rocks, or silver-leaf companions.

Summary
With its elegant form, subtle leaf coloration, and bright seasonal blooms, Aloe ‘Ghost Aloe’ offers a balance of quiet sophistication and show-stopping color. It’s a low-maintenance choice for Arizona-friendly landscapes that want both texture and bloom without large size.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Ghost Aloe Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily; afternoon shade helps in extreme heat)
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or rocky soil to prevent moisture retention
Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow the rosette to expand and maintain good airflow
Planting Depth: Set the crown at or slightly above the soil surface to help drainage
Support: No staking required; naturally stable rosette form

Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly once after planting to settle the soil and remove air pockets. Allow the soil to dry before watering again. During the first 2–3 months, water every 10–14 days depending on temperature and drainage.
When is the Plant Established? Considered established after approximately 6 months when root growth is secure and new leaves appear regularly.
Watering Once Established: Once established, water sparingly. In summer, irrigate only during prolonged dry spells (every 3–4 weeks). In winter, supplemental watering is rarely needed unless soil becomes completely dry.
Drip Irrigation Setup: Place emitters 6–8 inches from rosette center to avoid wetting the crown. Use low-flow emitters (0.5–1 gph) and allow soil to dry fully between cycles. One emitter per plant is sufficient.
General Watering Tips: Always check soil dryness before watering. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root or crown rot. Use coarse gravel or rock mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it several inches away from the rosette for optimal airflow.