Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis

Aloe vera

●

Taxonomy

Common Names

Aloe veraTrue aloeFirst aid plantBurn aloe

Context

nativeRegion

Originates from the Arabian Peninsula but widely cultivated globally.

usdaZones

USDA zones 9–11 outdoors; grown as a houseplant in cooler zones.

companionPlants

Sansevieria, Echeveria, Kalanchoe, Crassula

culturalUses

Extensively used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and as a houseplant for its purported air-purifying and soothing properties.

Care

LightBright, indirect sunlight to full sun. Tolerates some light shade but performs best with several hours of direct sun.

WateringAllow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Water deeply but infrequently, reducing in winter.

SoilWell-draining sandy or cacti/succulent potting mix. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.

FertilizerFeed with a diluted balanced fertilizer every 1–2 months during active growth (spring and summer).

HumidityPrefers low to average humidity. Handles dry indoor air well.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F); not frost-tolerant and should be kept above 10°C (50°F).

HabitSucculent perennial with a rosette of thick, fleshy leaves.

Mature SizeTypically 60–100 cm (24–39 in) tall, similar spread.

Growth RateModerate; younger plants grow faster under optimal conditions.

BloomingMatures to produce tall spikes of tubular yellow flowers, usually in late spring or early summer.

DormancyMild winter dormancy; slows growth if kept cool and dry.

MethodsOffsets (pups), Seed (rarely used due to slow growth)

DifficultyEasy via offsets; moderate from seed.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer, when growth is most active.

PruningRemove dead or damaged leaves as needed. Trim spent flower stalks after bloom.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when rootbound, ideally in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, scale, and root rot from overwatering.

ToxicityMildly toxic to pets if ingested; sap may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

No public plants yet.