A clumping rosette of thick fleshy grey-green leaves with toothed margins, filled with the soothing gel long used on burns, and sending up tall spikes of tubular yellow flowers. A practical pot staple.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 60 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Aloe Vera
Botanically, Aloe vera is a moderate-growing succulent in the Asphodelaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Yellow flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Aloe Vera does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Aloe Vera is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Aloe Vera after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Aloe Vera in the garden
Aloe Vera earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Aloe Vera with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Aloe Vera
Plant Sale lists Aloe Vera as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.