Aloe variegata attracts Hummingbirds

 Aloe variegata, attracts Hummingbirds

Aloe variegata is called the Partridge Breast Aloe, Tiger Aloe or  'Kannie dood' which means 'cannot die'. It is native to South Africa and Nambia and spread around the world as a house plant. I likes semi arid to arid climates and flowers most of the year in Phoenix, Arizona.  It has much the same medicinal properties as the well-known Aloe Vera plant and can be used internally as a antimicrobial and it relieves discomfort and help heal skin irritations (ex burns and shingles).

Many beliefs are attached to this delightful species which was described as early as 1658. It is said that some indigenous people to this day, hang plants inside the huts of young women and if the plant flowers, this indicates that the women is fertile and will have many children-the plant will flower although not in the ground or cared for, hence its name, kannie dood.. Plants are also planted on graves in the belief that it will lead to eternal life. There is no doubt that Aloe variegata is a very attractive plant for garden and container planting. Once established, it lasts for many years with little care.