cactus succulent

Wickens' Aloe

Aloe wickensii

The Story

Plant Bio

Aloe cryptopoda (syn. A. wickensii) is a stemless, suckering succulent that forms rosettes of gray-green, lance-shaped leaves. It is valued for its striking winter flowers.

Produces tall, branched inflorescences with racemes of tubular flowers that are typically bicolored, red in bud opening to yellow or greenish-yellow. It is very drought tolerant and provides valuable winter color.

Uses & Benefits:

Aloe wickensii adds architectural beauty with its rosette form and vibrant green color, perfect for xeriscape and succulent arrangements.

It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, making it ideal for water-wise gardening.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

36"

Width

30"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Winter – Early fall

In flower about 10 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or offsets into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop, about 2-3 weeks.
Place in a bright, sunny location for optimal growth.
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between watering.
Apply cactus-specific fertilizer during the growing season, every 4-6 weeks.
Mulch lightly to prevent moisture loss and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use a gritty, well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
Water deeply but infrequently, especially in summer
Use a cactus or succulent fertilizer during active growth
Ensure soil drains well to avoid waterlogging
Protect from frost by bringing indoors in colder months

Don't

Don't overwater; succulents are drought-tolerant ❌
Avoid using heavy, clay soils that retain moisture
Don't place in low-light or shady areas
Do not expose to freezing temperatures without protection
Avoid fertilizing during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sun-drenched rock gardenDesert-themed succulent borderContainer garden on patio with sculptural appeal

Companion Plants

Agave Echinocactus Sedum Yucca Opuntia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wickens' Aloe questions

What zones can Wickens' Aloe grow in?

Wickens' Aloe is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wickens' Aloe deer resistant?

Yes — Wickens' Aloe is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Wickens' Aloe bloom?

Wickens' Aloe typically blooms in winter through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wickens' Aloe need full sun?

Wickens' Aloe does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Wickens' Aloe drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Wickens' Aloe handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.