Description
Aloe greatheadii var. davyana is a very hardy, fairly robust, drought-resistant, stemless Aloe that grows singly or in groups. The leaves are shiny green with white spots arranged in bands. They have sharp, dark-brown teeth along the leaf margins.
The plant itself may be a bit drab but it is spectacular when in flower. Pale-pink to bright-red, attractive flowers are arranged on a branched flowering stem in June and July and attract insects and Sunbirds.
The leaf sap is used medicinally for the treatment of burns and wounds. This is a common Aloe on the Witwatersrand. It can be used successfully as a soil binder on banks and to prevent erosion.
Planted in large numbers in full sun or semi-shade they will brighten up a winter garden.
Size: 20 to 30cm
Wildlife
Good nectar plant: It attracts insects and Sunbirds to the garden
Uses
Medicinal: The leaf sap is used medicinally for the treatment of burns and wounds.
Distribution
Limpopo, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Free State
Habitat:Bushveld, Grassland