Aloe Plant Info

  • Perennial succulent
  • Hardiness: USDA zones 9 to 11
  • Full Grown Size: Up to 10 ft (3 m)
  • Bloom Time: Summer or autumn
  • Maintenance: Water sparingly, repot every 2 to 3 years, fertilize once or twice a year, and prune only to remove dead or damaged leaves or stems

Aloe is a genus of succulent plants that belong to the family of Asphodelaceae. It’s native to Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula, but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other regions of the world. Aloe has fleshy, often spiny leaves that form a rosette at the base or along a stem. The leaves contain a gel-like substance that has various medicinal and cosmetic uses. The plant also produces attractive yellow, orange, red, or pink tubular flowers and for this reason, it’s popular as a house and garden plant.

Aloe L
Aloe
True aloe
Barbados aloe
Burn plant
First aid plant
Medicine plant

Aloe vera
Aloe ferox
Aloe arborescens
Aloe brevifolia
Aloe polyphylla
Aloe plicatilis
Aloe striata
Aloe maculata
Aloe aristata
Yellow, orange, red, pink, or white blooms

Water

Because it's low maintenance, aloe needs very little water and can survive long periods of drought. Hydrate only when the soil is dry to the touch. Another good rule of thumb is to water once every 2 to 4 weeks in summer and once every 6 to 8 weeks in winter.

Sunlight

Place the plant in an area that receives plenty of light to encourage healthy growth. It can tolerate full sun exposure but may need some shade during the hottest part of the day or in very hot climates to prevent sunburn or heat stress.

Soil

Well-drained soil that does not retain too much moisture or become compacted. If growing indoors, ensure the potting mix is light and porous and contains organic matter to improve water retention and nutrient availability. The soil should be replaced or amended every 2 to 3 years or when repotting the plant.

Fertilizer

Feed once or twice a year with a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer during spring or summer. It's best to dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength and apply it according to the label instructions.

Pruning

Prune only to remove dead or damaged leaves or stems or to shape the plant if desired. Allow the cut surfaces to dry and heal before watering or exposing them to direct sun.

Propagation

By seed, offsets, stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division.

Thrives in

Warm and dry climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.

Toxicity

Generally safe for humans and pets

Pests & Diseases

Mealybugs
Scale insects
Aphids
Spider mites
Thrips
Whiteflies
Anthracnose
Rust
Powdery mildew

Landscaping Ideas

Rock gardens
Xeriscapes
Borders
Edging
Ground covers
Containers
Hanging baskets
Window boxes

Last Updated: September 22, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.

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