Aloe perryi (Socotrine Aloe)

Native to Socotra, this succulent subshrub grows in dry, rocky habitats, often on limestone. It usually forms a single rosette on a short stem, with occasional offsets around its base. Upright flowering stalks branch and bear dense groups of tubular flowers that change from reddish tones to yellow as they open. The seed capsules split into sections to release numerous angular seeds. Its bitter leaf sap is collected, dried, and traded for use in traditional medicine. Drought and grazing of seedlings by goats can reduce wild populations. Photographed in Florida.