Aloe vera
Aloe vera (syn. Aloe barbadensis Miller)
Stemless succulent with rosette of fleshy, serrated leaves containing medicinal gel; drought-tolerant, prefers bright light and well-draining soil, very easy to grow indoors.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: mildly toxic
Aloe vera sap can cause vomiting, diarrhea and skin irritation in pets and sensitive people; inner gel is used medicinally after proper processing.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Provide very bright light: 6–8+ hours daily. A south- or west-facing window is ideal; move slightly back from hot glass or use a sheer curtain to avoid midday scorch. Outdoors, give morning sun and afternoon shade.
Water
Water deeply but infrequently. Let the top 3–5 cm (1–2 in) of soil dry completely between waterings. In summer water roughly every 2–3 weeks, in winter every 3–6 weeks. Always use a pot with drainage and discard excess runoff.
Humidity
Aloe prefers low to average indoor humidity (30–50%). Avoid misting; ensure good air circulation. In high-humidity homes, use very gritty soil and increase drainage to prevent rot.
Temperature
Optimal 15–30°C (59–86°F). Keep above 7°C (45°F) to avoid cold damage and protect from frost; tolerates brief higher temps if shaded and watered.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow, mushy leaves and collapse
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root rot
Solution: Remove affected leaves, unpot and inspect roots. Trim rotten roots, repot into fresh well-draining mix and reduce watering frequency.
Brown or bleached leaf patches (sunburn)
Cause: Sudden exposure to intense midday sun or hot glass
Solution: Move to a bright spot with filtered light, gradually acclimate to stronger sun, and provide afternoon shade outdoors.
Stretching/elongated, pale leaves (etiolation)
Cause: Insufficient light
Solution: Move to a brighter location with at least 6 hours of direct/bright light; trim damaged leaves and rotate plant regularly.
Sticky residue, cottony webbing or small white insects
Cause: Mealybugs, scale or spider mites
Solution: Isolate plant. Wipe leaves with isopropyl alcohol swabs, repeat weekly, or use insecticidal soap/steaming applications for persistent infestations.
✂️How to Propagate Aloe vera
Best propagated by removing offsets (pups). Gently separate pups from the mother plant ensuring some roots remain. Allow any cut surfaces to dry and callus 1–2 days. Plant in a small pot with a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix, firm lightly, and wait 5–7 days before first light watering. Seeds can be sown on well-draining mix, kept warm and lightly moist; germination is slower. Division of large clumps follows same callus-and-plant steps.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Asphodelaceae
Native to: Native to the Arabian Peninsula and northern Africa; widely naturalized in arid regions worldwide.
Natural Habitat: Grows on arid, rocky slopes and coastal sandy soils with excellent drainage, intense sun and seasonal drought; adapted to periods of heat and little rainfall.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering to every 3–6 weeks depending on indoor warmth. Keep plant in the brightest possible spot and maintain temps above 7°C (45°F). Avoid fertilizing.
Spring
Resume regular watering schedule as new growth appears. Repot or divide if crowded and begin monthly dilute fertilization during active growth.
Summer
Provide bright light with some afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 30°C. Water more often but allow soil to dry between waterings and ensure excellent drainage.
Fall
Gradually reduce fertilizer and watering frequency as growth slows. Move indoors if nights approach frost and inspect for pests before overwintering.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my aloe vera?
Water deeply but infrequently: typically every 2–3 weeks in summer and every 3–6 weeks in winter, letting soil dry between waterings.
Can aloe vera live in low light?
It tolerates lower light briefly but will stretch and weaken; bright light with some direct sun is best for compact health.
Is aloe vera safe for cats and dogs?
No. Aloe sap is mildly toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested.
How do I propagate aloe vera?
Remove and repot offsets after curing cut surfaces 1–2 days; plant in well-draining mix and wait before first watering.
Why are my aloe leaves turning brown at the tips?
Brown tips often indicate sunburn, fertilizer burn, or inconsistent watering. Adjust light, dilute fertilizer and check watering habits.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025