Scarlet-Chested Sunbirds and Torch Aloe Original

Chalcomitra senegalensis and Aloe arborescens

Acrylic on watercolor paper, 2010

35.5 x 27.5″; framed; archival matboard, wood frame

Torch aloe is native to South Africa and is pollinated by birds, such as these lovely scarlet-chested sunbirds (female on left, male on right). Here in California, where the aloes grow beautifully, hummingbirds love visiting the bright orange-red flowers for nectar. The flowers and birds are painted at life-size.