Aloe are fleshy, water-retaining plants (succulents) with magnificent flowers ranging from orange-red to yellow. The flowers contain nectar which attracts birds to feed, and pollinate the flowers. The beaks of the area’s sunbirds are adapted to match the shape of these funnel-shaped flowers.

There are about 500 species of aloe in the world, many of which are commonly used as water-saving ornamentals (their water-retaining leaves allow them to survive in dry, arid conditions). The most common of these is Aloe vera, whose leaves are used in cosmetic and medical preparations.

Here in the Gardens:

The Southern Africa Section has 34 species of aloe, with breathtaking winter and spring blossoms.