Aloe castanea is found from Witbank northwards to Lydenburg in Mpumalanga and Pietersburg in the Northern Province. The Aloes become tree-like with age with several spreading branches.
The brownish-orange flowers appear in June to August. The inflorescences that spread in different directions have an untidy appearance , hence the common name Cat's-tail Aloe. This is a distinctive feature not shared by other Aloes. Additionally the brown nectar produced by the flowers is quite uncommon.
Aloe castanea is an easy plant to cultivate and can withstand frost and heat.
Aloe castanea, a large adult plant in the Karoo Botanical garden.
Aloe castanea younger plants in full flower.
Aloe castanea flowers. The brown nectar is easily visible.
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