Photo from the existing Xerophyte.Garden profile
Aloe vera
Aloe vera
A familiar clumping aloe with fleshy, toothed leaves containing a clear gel.
Plant profile updated August 2026
Quick Facts
Identification
How to Grow Aloe Vera
Light
Provide bright light and introduce strong direct sun gradually.
Water
Soak the soil thoroughly, then let it dry completely before watering again.
Soil
Use a fast-draining succulent mix in a container with an open drainage hole.
Temperature
Protect from frost and move containers indoors before temperatures reach 30°F (-1.1°C).
Indoor Growing
Place near a bright window and rotate the pot for even growth.
Common Problem
Soft leaves and root rot most often indicate excess water or poor drainage.
Propagation by Offsets
- Choose a healthy offset with its own roots.
- Separate it cleanly from the parent plant.
- Let the cut surface dry for one to two days.
- Plant in dry, well-draining succulent soil.
- Water lightly after the plant begins to establish.
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom | Plantae |
|---|---|
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Subfamily | Asphodeloideae |
| Genus | Aloe |
| Species | Aloe vera |
Safety: Do not treat Aloe vera as edible based only on an online identification. The latex beneath the leaf skin can be harmful if swallowed, and the plant can be toxic to pets.
