Also known as Aloe · Babosa · Barbados Aloe
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aloe Vera (Aloe vera) is a popular succulent known for its fleshy, lance-shaped green leaves. It is widely cultivated for its medicinal gel, used topically for skin ailme
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sun.
70% intensity
Water thoroughly, allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce in winter.
30% intensity
Well-draining succulent or cactus mix
50% intensity
Warm temperatures, protect from frost.
60% intensity
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in growing season.
20% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
The latex (yellow sap) found just under the skin of the leaves contains aloin, which is a strong laxative and can cause gastrointestinal upset, cramping, and diarrhea if ingested in significant quantities by humans or pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the top 5-7 cm of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter or during cooler, darker periods to prevent root rot.
Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for Aloe vera. Ensure pots have drainage holes.
Pruning is minimal for Aloe vera. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves by cutting them cleanly at the base with a sharp, sterile knife.
You can also remove offsets (pups) from the base to propagate new plants or to maintain the main plant's size and vigor.
Aloe vera is easily propagated from offsets, also known as pups, which grow at the base of the mother plant. Carefully separate the pups from the parent plant, ensuring they have some roots attached.
Allow the cut end to callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Repot Aloe vera every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound or the offsets overcrowd the pot. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring it has good drainage.
Repot in spring or early summer, using fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Aloe Vera (Aloe vera)
Where Aloe Vera (Aloe vera) 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 vera |
Similar in genus Aloe
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
