Aloe ballyi

Aloe ballyi, Rat Aloe

Aloe ballyi, commonly known as the Rat Aloe, is an unusual succulent. It produces a rosette of long and fleshy leaves atop a slender stem. The fleshy leaves are grey-green with small, white teeth along the margins. Red-orange flowers are borne off long stems during summer. It can grow to 3 m or more tall and 80 cm wide, but is easily contained with trimming as necessary. Aloe ballyi makes for a great specimen and is commonly included in plantings for its structural form and unusualness. It is great for adding height and texture to a planting.

Suited to regions:	Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:	Succulents
Height:	3.00 m
Spread:	80 cm
Flowering time:	Summer
Tolerances:	Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses:	Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles:	Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as	Aloe ballyi, Rat Aloe

Aloe ballyi Details

Aloe ballyi, commonly known as the Rat Aloe, is an unusual succulent. It produces a rosette of long and fleshy leaves atop a slender stem. The fleshy leaves are grey-green with small, white teeth along the margins. It gets its common name from the odour released from damaged leaves and stems which is akin to the smell of rats. Red-orange flowers are borne off long stems during summer. It can grow to 3 m or more tall and 80 cm wide, but is easily contained with trimming as necessary. It grows best on well-drained site in full sun, and tolerates extended dry periods, and light frost once established. Aloe ballyi makes for a great specimen and is commonly included in plantings for its structural form and unusualness. It is great for adding height and texture to a planting.