Aloe Vera Plant

With its origins in Africa, this attractive succulent has become a favorite among houseplants. Given proper conditions and care, it is easy to grow and a beneficial addition to the home.

Growth Habits

Aloe Vera plants can be found in garden centers in numerous sizes. They can grow to over two feet tall and wide, and larger if planted outside in warm weather.

In its native environment it flowers in late spring, but as a houseplant it rarely blooms, especially if the leaves are snipped off.

Growing Conditions

The Aloe plant prefers strong, bright light. Given time to acclimate to the outdoors in summer, it can tolerate full sun.

It should be grown as a houseplant and given bright light indoors in winter. As with all succulents, it does not do well in wet soil.

Aloe Vera Plant Care

Aloe plant should be watered generously during hot summer months and minimally in winter when it goes dormant.

It prefers warm temperatures of 70 to 80 degrees, and is somewhat tolerant of cooler temps. Plant it in well-drained soil, preferably a cactus potting soil.

Only fertilize during the growth period, in summer months, using a cactus fertilizer.

The Aloe Vera plant is a slow grower and only needs to be repotted when it is too large for its pot to hold it. If you notice a lack of growth during the spring and summer, repot the plant.

Propagation

Aloe Vera is easy to propagate. When repotting, divide the root ball or look for shoots from the root that can be separated. Plant these up separately in well-drained potting soil.

Aloe Vera Therapeutic Uses

The plant has been used for many ailments for many years. When cut off, the leaves expose a gel-like substance that is famous for its easing burns, cuts and bruises.

Leaves can be boiled in a pot of water to create a vapor to aid congestion and asthma symptoms. The juice, which is taken from just below the skin of the leaves, has a laxative affect.

If you are using a leaf from a plant, use it as soon as it is cut. Do not store the leaf, as it does not store well.

Use care in using any medicinal plant internally or topically, as everyone has different reactions. You can also purchase preserved Aloe Vera for topical or internal use as well.

The Aloe Vera plant adds texture, height and a unique structure to a collection of houseplants. Once a staple medicinal plant, it enjoys a place of prominence in many homes.