Aloe 'Petra'
Petra's aloe
A highly ornamental aloe with fleshy, blue-green leaves with few teeth along the margins. Seed given to us by noted plantswoman Petra Christ, of Rare Succulents in Rainbow, California.
We expect spikes of deep orange to coral-red tubular flowers that draw hummingbirds late winter through spring. But we may end up surprised: Some aloes bloom in other seasons and other colors.
 Height | 6–24in |
|---|---|
 Width | 6–20in |
 Tolerates | Coast, Drought, Heat, Neglect, Pots |
 Water needs | Lowest |
Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Outdoors in the ground, established plants rarely require summer irrigation along the coast. | |
 Hardy to | 28°F |
 Exposure | Part Sun – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Clumping, Colorful, Flowering, Foliage Feature, Humming Birds, Rock Garden, Rosette, Sculptural, Succulent |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Requires Perfect Drainage, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose 1/2 Strength, Low Needs |
 Origin | Nursery origin |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 13, 15–24, H1, H2 |
Growing Notes
Plant in sharp, gritty soil where excess water drains away freely. In hot inland climates, a bit of light afternoon shade keeps the foliage vibrant and prevents sun scorch; coastal gardens can plant it in full sun.
Protect from hard frosts below the upper 20s F. If grown in a container, use an unglazed ceramic or terracotta pot with good drainage holes, and reduce watering to nearly nothing through cold winter months.
Special Interest
The nectar-rich blooms provide an early season food source for hummingbirds and bees.
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The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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