Also known as Aloe · Aloe Vera · Red-Flower Aloe
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aloe officinalis, also known as Aloe officinalis, is a succulent plant with fleshy, serrated leaves. It is prized for its medicinal properties and ease of care.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect sunlight
75% intensity
Prefers 4-6 hours of bright, filtered light daily; avoid intense direct sun
Allow to dry out between waterings
25% intensity
Water thoroughly when soil is dry, reduce in winter
Well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Ideal between 18-24°C; protect from frost and extreme cold
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Sparse feeding
25% intensity
Diluted succulent fertilizer during growing season, none in winter
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
Contains saponins and anthraquinones, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The latex can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent waterlogged conditions and potential rot.
Prune away dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves at the base of the plant using a clean, sharp knife. This improves the plant's appearance and directs energy towards healthy growth.
Remove any spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage more blooms.
Easily propagated from offsets (pups) that grow around the base of the mother plant. Gently remove a pup with roots attached using a clean knife.
Allow the cut end to callus over for a few days, then plant in well-draining succulent soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, with drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for succulents and cacti to ensure good aeration.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Aloe Officinalis (Aloe officinalis)
Where Aloe Officinalis (Aloe officinalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Species | Aloe officinalis |
Similar in genus Aloe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
