Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
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Aloe vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis, is a perennial succulent plant belonging to the Asphodelaceae family and native to the Arabian Peninsula. It has thick, fleshy, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern from a central stem. The leaves are typically green to gray-green in color and have serrated edges with small white teeth. Mature plants may produce tall flower spikes adorned with tubular yellow or orange flowers. Aloe vera is primarily grown for its foliage and gel-filled leaves which are famous for their cooling effect on burns and skin irritations.
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Scientific Name |
Aloe vera (syn. Aloe barbadensis) |
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Foliage: Evergreen |
Leaves: The thick, lance-shaped leaves are gray-green (sometimes spotted with white when young). The edges are lined with small, soft white teeth. Flowers: Mature plants (usually 4+ years old) produce a tall spike in summer topped with tubular yellow flowers that are a favorite for hummingbirds |
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Mature Height |
1-2 feet (flower stalks can reach 3 feet) |
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Mature Width (Spread) |
1-2 feet (clumps can spread wider via "pups") |
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Growth Rate |
Slow to Moderate |
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USDA Zone |
8-11 (Best outdoors in 9-11; needs protection below 25 degrees F) |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Bright Indirect Light to Full Sun. Indoors, it needs a very sunny window. Outdoors, it prefers full sun but appreciates some light afternoon shade in blistering desert climates to prevent the leaves from turning orange or "sunburnt." When grown indoors, place Aloe vera near a south- or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
Water Requirements: Low. Aloe stores water in its fleshy leaves. The "soak and dry" method is best: water deeply, then allow the soil to dry out completely (at least the top 2 inches) before watering again. Over-watering is the most common cause of death, root rot.
Drought Resistance: Exceptional. It is highly adapted to arid conditions and can survive long periods without supplemental water, though it looks "plumper" and healthier with occasional deep watering.
Soil Type: Gritty and Well-Drained. It requires a sandy or rocky soil mix. It will not tolerate "wet feet." In pots, a cactus or succulent potting mix is essential. A well-draining pot is important to prevent water-logging and root rot.
Deer Resistance: High. Deer generally find the thick, bitter sap and the prickly margins of the leaves unpalatable.
Maintenance: Aloe vera requires minimal maintenance and is relatively pest-resistant. However, it may benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for succulents. Remove dead or yellowing leaves as needed to maintain the plant's appearance and overall health.