Aloe brevifolia, commonly known as Short-leaved Aloe, is a succulent perennial that is native to the fynbos and rocky sandstone slopes in the Western Cape of South Africa. This plant typically grows to about 4 inches (10 cm) in height and can form large clumps. It has distinctive rosettes of gray-blue leaves that are short and broad, with white teeth along the margins. The Short-leaved Aloe blooms in late spring to early summer (November in its native habitat), producing bright red to orange tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as birds and bees.

Short-leaved Aloe is valued for its drought tolerance and is often used in rockeries, desert gardens, and as a container plant. Its compact size and ornamental foliage make it a popular choice for small spaces and low-water landscapes. It requires minimal maintenance, thriving in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. While it is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and over-collection in the wild, it is readily propagated and widely available in cultivation.CC BY-SA 4.0