Short Leaf Aloe

Plant Type: Aloes
Plant Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 2-3 feet
Flower Color: orange-red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Aloe brevifolia (Short Leaf Aloe) – A Compact, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Arizona Gardens

Aloe brevifolia, commonly known as Short Leaf Aloe, is a compact and visually striking succulent that forms dense rosettes of short, broad leaves. The blue-green to gray-green leaves are fleshy and edged with white teeth, giving this plant a distinct and attractive appearance. Its modest size and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and container gardening.

Key Features of Aloe brevifolia:

• Compact Size: The Short Leaf Aloe typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet and spreads up to 2 to 3 feet, making it ideal for small garden spaces or as an accent plant in larger arrangements.
• Attractive Foliage: The plant’s blue-green leaves are edged with white teeth, adding texture and visual interest to any garden. In bright light, the leaf tips may develop a reddish hue, enhancing its ornamental value.
• Drought Tolerant: Like most aloes, Aloe brevifolia thrives in well-drained soil and requires minimal water, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardens in Arizona.

Perfect for Xeriscaping and Small Garden Spaces

The Short Leaf Aloe is well-suited for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens. Its compact size and striking foliage make it a perfect addition to rock gardens, succulent collections, or as a container plant for patios and courtyards.

• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, the Short Leaf Aloe requires very little care. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, with brighter light intensifying its leaf color. Its ability to thrive in well-drained soil makes it a reliable choice for desert climates.
• Versatile Use: This compact aloe is ideal for small garden spaces, succulent gardens, and container gardening, adding texture and color wherever it’s planted.
• Ornamental and Functional: The white-toothed leaves and reddish leaf tips in bright light make Aloe brevifolia a standout plant, while its drought tolerance ensures minimal water use.

Why Choose Aloe brevifolia for Your Arizona Garden?

• Drought Tolerant: Perfect for xeriscaping and low-water-use landscapes, the Short Leaf Aloe thrives in arid environments with minimal water, making it ideal for Arizona’s dry climate.
• Compact & Versatile: Its small size and ornamental foliage make it a perfect fit for small garden spaces and container plantings, offering visual interest and easy care.
• Low-Maintenance: With its drought tolerance and minimal care needs, this aloe is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking water-efficient and attractive plants.

Blooming and Pollinators

In late spring to early summer, Aloe brevifolia produces vibrant spikes of orange-red flowers, adding a splash of color to any garden. These blooms attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, enhancing the plant’s appeal.

Planting & Care Tips

Aloe brevifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires very little water, making it highly drought-tolerant. Consider planting it in rock gardens, succulent collections, or containers to showcase its striking form and vibrant blooms.

The Aloe brevifolia (Short Leaf Aloe) is a compact, drought-tolerant succulent that brings both beauty and resilience to Arizona landscapes. Its attractive foliage, compact size, 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): Short Leaf Aloe

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and vibrant color)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 1-2 feet apart for compact growth or as a border plant
• 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: Short Leaf Aloe is a self-supporting succulent that grows in rosettes and requires no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Short Leaf Aloe is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 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 6-12 inches away from the base of the plant for even 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 frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks