Aloe distans, commonly known as Jeweled Aloe, is an evergreen succulent native to rocky outcrops and sandy plains in the Cape Province regions of South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 0.9-1 feet (27-30 cm) and a width of 0.7-0.9 feet (21-27 cm). The plant has sprawling, prostrate stems that can reach up to 2 meters in length, with the terminal leaf-bearing head often erect. Leaves are bluish-green, fleshy, and have harmless white teeth along the margins. In response to full sun or drought conditions, the leaves can turn a reddish color and curve inward. The red flowers, which are showy and appear on variable stalks, bloom in the spring, making it one of the few aloes that flower during this season.

Jeweled Aloe is valued for its drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and arid gardens. It is also appreciated for its summer flowering habit, which contrasts with the winter flowering of most aloes. This species is suitable for growing on embankments, rocky slopes, and walls, and can withstand both hot summers and occasional snow. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade, very low to low water, and well-draining soil. It is relatively easy to propagate through stem cuttings. While Jeweled Aloe is a tough and adaptable plant, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0