Aloe vera
Aloe vera
Aloe
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Taxonomy
Family Asphodelaceae · Genus Aloe
Description
Aloe vera is a tough, sun-loving succulent prized for its soothing gel and clean, architectural look. It thrives on bright light, infrequent watering, and a fast-draining mix—perfect for beginners and busy plant lovers alike.
Common Names
AloeTrue AloeMedicinal AloeBurn PlantFirst Aid Plant
Context
nativeRegion
Arabian Peninsula; widely naturalized across North Africa, the Mediterranean, and tropical regions.
usdaZones
9–11 outdoors; commonly grown as a houseplant elsewhere.
companionPlants
Haworthia, Gasteria, Echeveria, Crassula ovata (Jade Plant), Dracaena trifasciata (Snake Plant), Agave, Sedum, Delosperma (Ice Plant)
culturalUses
Widely used for its cooling leaf gel on minor burns and skin care, in cosmetics, and in traditional medicines (e.g., Ayurveda); also valued as an ornamental.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright light to full sun; aim for 6+ hours daily. Indoors, place at a south or west window and acclimate to direct sun to prevent sunburn.
WateringWater deeply, then allow soil to dry out completely between waterings (about every 2–4 weeks). Reduce in winter and avoid water sitting in the rosette.
SoilFast-draining cactus/succulent mix with added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Use pots with large drainage holes.
FertilizerFeed lightly in spring and summer with diluted (1/4–1/2 strength) cactus fertilizer monthly. Do not fertilize in fall or winter.
HumidityLow to average household humidity (20–50%) is ideal; provide good air circulation.
TemperatureBest at 60–85°F (16–29°C). Keep above 50°F (10°C) and protect from frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, rosette-forming succulent with fleshy, toothed leaves; produces tall flower spikes when mature.
Mature Size12–24 in (30–60 cm) tall and wide; flower stalks up to 36 in (90 cm).
Growth RateModerate with strong light and warmth; slow in low light.
BloomingSpring to summer under bright conditions; tubular yellow to orange flowers on tall racemes; uncommon indoors.
DormancyLight winter rest with slowed growth in cooler temperatures and short days.
Propagation
MethodsOffsets (pups), Division, Seed (less common)
DifficultyEasy from offsets; moderate from seed.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent flower stalks and any dead or damaged leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when rootbound; refresh with fast-draining mix. Use a slightly wider pot; allow soil to dry before and for a few days after repotting.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, and aphids. Overwatering can cause root or stem rot and fungal spots; ensure excellent drainage and avoid soggy soil.
ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested due to latex compounds; may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets and people. Topical inner gel is generally safe for minor skin use.