The Zimbabwean Gardener Issue 19 Summer 2016/17 | Page 25

aloes Miombo Double-collared Sunbird on Aloe arborescens White-bellied Sunbird on a laxly flowering Variable Sunbird on light yellow Aloe pollination takes place. In my garden, where there are a myriad of aloe species flowering at the same time, the pollen vectors, sacred sunbirds, fly indiscriminately from one raceme to the other and hybridisation is a very common result. The resulting hybrids are not discriminated against, as they generally flower more profusely and leisurely, thus providing not only an artistic display, but also a ‘Sunbird Bar’ with extended opening times! Sunbirds and aloes have specialised and adapted to each other. In a sunbird’s eyes, the longer-stalked aloes are enticing, with many different species and flower shapes, fashioned to echo the profile of their guests’ de-curved bills. The length of the flower that safely protects the prized nectar is formed like a paragon, just the right length for their companion’s bill. And if that isn’t enough, the variety of insects that aloes attract comprises a substantial part of several other birds’ diets. Aloes provide a variety of structures, leaf shapes, colours, textures and sizes to complement their endless boasting of vibrant yellow, orange, pink and red hues, destined to attract Homo sapiens, bees, insects and other pollinators. Wise in more ways than those of a succulent nature, aloes continually produce nectar throughout the day to ensure pollination and return visits from their dazzling loyal patrons. Aloe, Cactus & Succulent Society of Zimbabwe Join or renew your membership to ensure you receive the monthly email newsletter, Ortholopha, and bi-annual copies of Ingens www.aloesocietyzim.com www.facebook.com/ACSSZ [email protected] 25