Glowing colours on almost-hardy succulent
Another of my posts from the Garden Press Event – this time I’m focusing on a plant I’ll be trialling later this season, Aloe Safari Sunrise.
We’re used to growing Aloes indoors, but this new variety makes a great patio plant. The spiky, dark green foliage forms a rounded, evergreen clump, providing year-round interest. Pointed, bicoloured flower spikes of orange-pink and cream, like glowing candles, keep coming all summer.
Ideal in a patio pot or in a well-drained, sunny rockery. It is hardy but is best moved to a sheltered, dry and frost-free place with a minimum temperature of 2ºC for overwintering, to prevent damage from cold, wet weather. Safari Sunrise will also be happy all year in a conservatory or a cold greenhouse. Height and spread 90cm. Mine has been living in my conservatory and oddly, flowered in December the first year!
How to grow Aloe Safari Sunrise
Plant Aloe in containers of gritty, well-drained soil and place them in full sun. If plants are spending the summer outdoors, plunge the pot directly into the soil so that it can be taken indoors in autumn for overwintering.
During the growing season, water frequently to maintain evenly moist compost. Don’t leave Alow Safari Sunrise in standing water, as the roots may rot. Feed regularly between March and September when plants are in active growth.
For availability and current prices, visit www.thompson-morgan.com. Read more about cacti and succulents.
