Aloe asperiflora

The Afrikaans name for this species is 'kraal aalwyn', so-called because of their distinctive circular cluster growth patterns. These plants can be found onwards from 50km from the coast to about 120km inland from the Kuiseb River to north of the Hoarusib River. Growing along river courses and between quartz stone with available water is a characteristic of this plant. Other features include 2 to 3 rows of leaves growing as high as 80cm, rough leaf surfaces and flowers that grow parallel to the ground.

A. asperiflora do not flower every year, but do bloom from March to April, some as late as July. Not a particular stunning succulent, a striking effect in rockeries when planted together can be achieved. This species can also resist large amounts of watering, with a caveat of being raised well-above soil level of the rock garden. Succulent enthusiasts must remember to lay A. asperiflora down and cover with a thin layer of sand, steadied with a couple of rocks.