Hercules Aloe
Hercules aloe is a striking aloe tree that commands attention with its beauty, unusual appearance, and sheer magnitude once mature.
As it gets older, the aloe leaves fall off the bottom, revealing a tree trunk on the bottom and leaving a crown of long, green succulent leaves at the top.
Quite likely to be a conversation starter, whether it's 3 feet tall or 30!
Botanical name: Aloidendron 'Hercules'
Other names: Aloe Hercules, Aloidendron barberae x Aloidendron dichotomum, Hercules tree aloe
15 gallon Hercules aloe for sale at the nursery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Hercules Aloe Appearance
Eye-catching aloe tree that is a hybrid of Aloidendron barberae and Aloidendron dichotomum, also known as Quiver Tree.
Long evergreen leaves with tapered edges grow out of a vertical central stem. Dark green leaves have fleshy textures and serrated edges.
As the older, lower leaves fall off, they expose a smooth, gray stem that thickens and eventually becomes similar to a tree trunk with a bark-like texture.
Upright growth habit. Will form branches when very mature. Some people say Hercules aloe looks like a yucca or palm tree when it gets taller due to its tree trunk appearance.
Can grow to 30-40 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide.
When in bloom, many orange flowers appear on several flower stalks. Tubular flowers look very similar to aloe vera flowers. Long blooming season, from spring to fall.
Followed by dark green, oval-shaped fruits that contain seeds.
Hercules Aloe Landscaping Tips
Very attention-grabbing in all stages of life, but especially once mature. With the exception of extra large yards, for most yards, we recommend planting one or two Hercules aloes as a focal point.
Eventually, the tall, thin aloe will branch out and spread horizontally. Provide ample space.
To maintain Hercules aloe's beautiful dark green shade of leaves, we recommend providing afternoon shade in hot and dry desert regions.
Full sun is recommended in temperate regions.
Adds a nice dark green color to the desert garden and a pop of bright orange when in bloom.
Adds an exotic vibe to desert gardens as well as the Mediterranean and coastal gardens.
Attracts hummingbirds when in bloom.
Hercules Aloe Origin
Hercules aloe is a hybrid of Aloidendron barberae from Southern and Eastern Africa, and Aloidendron dichotomum from Namibia and South Africa.
Hercules aloe in 25 gallon container
Hercules Aloe Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 25 degrees for a short period of time.
Water: Regular watering during the growing season. Allow the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs area and other hot desert regions.
Hercules Aloe Problems
Pests: Hercules aloe has minimal pests which include mealybugs. To remove them, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of the infestation using a cotton swab.
Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, surrounding soil that does not dry out
Signs of too little water: Shriveled appearance
Signs of too much sun: Burning, fading leaves
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, stunted growth
Hercules Aloe Propagation
As a general rule, it is best to propagate hybrids via cuttings and offsets rather than seeds.
The easiest way to propagate Hercules aloe is by cutting a stem with a sharp blade (preferably once the aloe tree has multiple branches), allowing it to callous, and then planting it in moist soil.
FAQ
How much does a Hercules aloe cost?
At our nursery, Hercules Aloe costs $55 for a 5-gallon container, $150 for a 15-gallon container, and $350 for a 25-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How fast does Hercules aloe grow?
Hercules aloe grows about a foot a year.
Does Hercules aloe flower?
Yes, many orange flowers appear on several flower stalks, attracting hummingbirds.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 30-40 feet x 15-20 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Orange |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Fall |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun/Partial Shade |
| WATER | Low/Moderate |
| GROWTH RATE | Fast |
| HARDINESS | 25º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |