Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis miller
The ultimate multitasking succulent that's both a striking houseplant and a natural first-aid kit in one gorgeous package. Its thick, fleshy leaves store healing gel that soothes burns, cuts, and skin irritation, making it a must-have for every home. This drought-tolerant beauty produces stunning orange or yellow flower spikes and thrives with minimal care, perfect for busy plant lovers.
Harvest
60-90d
Days to harvest
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Zones
10–12
USDA hardiness
Height
12-24 inches
Complete Growing Guide
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day), Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours). Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Occasionally Dry. Height: 1 ft. 0 in. - 2 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 1 ft. 0 in. - 2 ft. 6 in.. Spacing: 12 inches-3 feet. Growth rate: Medium. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Division.
Harvesting
Bloom time: Spring, Winter
Edibility: Causes low toxicity if eaten. Used medicinally and in drinks when properly prepared.
History & Origin
Origin: Arabian Peninsula
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Salt
- +Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Songbirds
- +Edible: Causes low toxicity if eaten. Used medicinally and in drinks when properly prepared.
- +Low maintenance
Considerations
- -Toxic (Leaves): Low severity
- -Causes contact dermatitis
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Snake Plant
Similar water and light requirements, both tolerate neglect and dry conditions
Jade Plant
Compatible watering schedules and both prefer well-draining soil
Zebra Plant
Similar succulent care needs and creates attractive textural contrast
Spider Plant
Both are low-maintenance and spider plant helps purify air without competing for resources
Rubber Plant
Different root depths prevent competition and both tolerate similar indoor conditions
Pothos
Trailing growth complements aloe's upright form and both are beginner-friendly
Echeveria
Identical water and light needs as fellow succulent, creates attractive groupings
ZZ Plant
Both are drought-tolerant and thrive in similar low to moderate light conditions
Keep Apart
Fern
Requires high humidity and frequent watering which can cause root rot in aloe
Peace Lily
Needs consistently moist soil and high humidity, opposite of aloe's dry preferences
Calathea
Requires high humidity and frequent watering that would be detrimental to aloe vera
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Highly resistant to most diseases, susceptible to root rot
Common Pests
Mealybugs, scale insects, aloe mites
Diseases
Root rot, soft rot, leaf spot from overwatering