Aloe plicatilis

Long before there were hand fans there were fan aloes, a realization which strikes the question, "did ancient civilizations who lived symbiotically with these plants ever used them as hand fans?" Perhaps not, or perhaps only people deeply rooted in those parts of the world would know, or perhaps only the universe. Known as the fan aloe, Aloe plicatilis is among one of the most beautiful plants out of the African continent. Its pale green leaves grow directly opposite of each other, creating a fan-like appearance. Through the heart of the 'fan' comes the inflorescence, which produces tubular coral-colored blooms. As it matures, it develops an attractive grayish-brown trunk with multiple branches and fans, further enhancing the surrounding environment. The leaf margins develop a pinkish hue at the tips during times of intense sunlight and drought which is normal. This might be more evident in hotter regions as opposed to coastal climates. It can benefit from a bit of shade in regions whe