An aloe like plant that looks good doesn't need much water. What do I have

by RJ
(SF Bay Area, Northern California, CA, USA)

Single plant

Single plant

I have some plants around my yard that don't need much water and look fairly good. They also replicate fairly easily.

The leaves have some thickness and ooze some sap when cut.
The plants are small and low-maintenance in Northern California.

I'm very curious as to what it is.

Thanks

Comments for An aloe like plant that looks good doesn't need much water. What do I have

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Jan 17, 2015
 A Bulbous Plant
by: Jacki

There are many possible culprits to this one; I suggest you dig one up and see what the roots look like.

Some plants, like Clivia have fleshy yellow roots, in a loose clump. Others are more like bulbs, such as daffodils. Without more information about this plant, it's impossible to really narrow it down. There is also the possibility that it could bloom at some time too;

Things to notice;

The type of flowers, if they are on single stems, or a cluster at the top of the stem.

Color of the blooms and if they change over time, or open at different times as the flower stalk ages.

The time of year that they flower.

Some of the answers to these questions will help identify the plant.

Sorry I don't know the answer instantly, it requires more detective work.
Jan 17, 2015
 Photo of flowers
by: RJ

I should have mentioned that the plant has blue flowers. A stalk rises out of the plant and a cluster of blue flowers arises at the tip.


The roots are tubular and the plant can be pulled out of the ground without much effort.
Jan 17, 2015
 link to photo of flower
by: RJ

add "https://" to below to see the image.

plus.google.com/photos/108848488244318574770/albums/6105454542944451073?authkey=CNGErtWfhp_CmwE
Jan 17, 2015
 Got it!
by: Jacki

What you've got is Agapanthus - lucky!
Jan 17, 2015
 Thank You
by: RJ

Thank You so much. I've wondered for years what they are.

They look good. Need pretty much no water and the roots hold together soil well.



Thanks very much.

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