Mountain Aloe

Plant Type: Aloes
Plant Height: 5-8 feet
Spread: 4-6 feet
Flower Color: bright orange-red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Aloe marlothii (Mountain Aloe) – A Striking, Drought-Tolerant Aloe for Arizona Landscapes

Aloe marlothii, commonly known as the Mountain Aloe, is a robust and visually impressive aloe species native to southern Africa. This large succulent can grow to heights of 5 to 8 feet, with a spread of 4 to 6 feet, forming a dense rosette of thick, gray-green leaves. The spiny leaf surfaces and sharp teeth along the edges give this aloe a rugged, textured appearance, making it a bold feature in xeriscapes and desert gardens.

Key Features of Aloe marlothii:

• Unique Textured Foliage: The gray-green leaves of Aloe marlothii are covered in spiky thorns with sharp teeth along the edges, creating a formidable, architectural presence. The broad, heavy leaves often curve outward, adding to its dramatic appearance.
• Drought Tolerant: Adapted to rocky hillsides and mountainous terrains, the Mountain Aloe thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for xeriscaping and arid garden landscapes in Arizona.
• Impressive Size: Growing to 5-8 feet tall and spreading 4-6 feet, Aloe marlothii is a perfect focal point for large outdoor spaces, creating a majestic presence in desert landscapes.

Perfect for Xeriscaping and Large Gardens

The Mountain Aloe is an excellent choice for xeriscaping, desert-themed gardens, and water-efficient landscapes. Its large size, textured foliage, and bright winter blooms make it a stunning focal point in large garden spaces.

• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, Aloe marlothii is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil with minimal watering. It performs best in full sun, making it a low-maintenance option for water-efficient gardens.
• Ornamental and Practical: With its rough, textured leaves and formidable appearance, the Mountain Aloe adds architectural interest to rock gardens and xeriscapes.
• Majestic Size: This large succulent is perfect for spacious landscapes, where its impressive height and broad rosettes can be fully appreciated as a bold, dramatic focal point.

Why Choose Aloe marlothii for Your Arizona Garden?

• Drought Tolerant: Perfect for xeriscaping and low-water-use landscapes, Aloe marlothii thrives in arid environments with minimal water, making it ideal for Arizona’s dry climate.
• Rugged Visual Appeal: The spiky, rough-textured leaves and dramatic form of the Mountain Aloe create a bold, architectural presence that adds depth and visual interest to any garden.
• Low-Maintenance: With its drought tolerance and minimal care needs, this aloe is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for water-efficient and low-maintenance plants.

Spectacular Winter Blooms

One of the most notable features of Aloe marlothii is its tall, spectacular flowering spikes, which bloom in bright orange-red clusters during winter. These vibrant flowers attract nectar-feeding birds and insects, making it a great addition to a garden for those seeking to enhance biodiversity.

Planting & Care Tips

Aloe marlothii thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it highly drought-tolerant. Use it in xeriscapes, rock gardens, or as a focal plant in large desert gardens to add a dramatic, sculptural element to your landscape.

The Aloe marlothii (Mountain Aloe) is a bold, drought-tolerant succulent that brings both beauty and dramatic visual impact to Arizona landscapes. Its impressive size, unique textured foliage, and vibrant winter blooms make it a valuable addition to xeriscaping, rock gardens, and desert-themed gardens in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Mountain Aloe

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 1.5-2 feet apart to allow for their rosette 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: Mountain Aloe grows in a compact, upright form and does not require staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Mountain Aloe is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks