Aloe vera

Medicinal Aloe

Accent

This evergreen has spiky succulent rosettes that grow upward to 12 or 18 inches. They have sharp tips and whitish to reddish teeth along the margins. One plant quickly spawns many offsets, forming a dense clump in a few years. Clumps may reach ten feet in width if not divided.

Temperature

Hardy to 25F.

Water requirements

None to moderate.

Sun

Open or part shade. Full or reflected sun.

Soil

Tolerant. Good drainage.

Maintenance

Periodic.

Disadvantages

Occasional infestation of Aloe mite. Old clumps may look unkempt after blooming and need to be groomed.

Bloom

Yellowish flowers on three-foot bloom stalks in March and April. May have two or bloom periods.

Uses

Used for centuries as a treatment for burns and skin afflictions. Must be fresh to work since the active ingredients break down when exposed to air. Makes a great container plant.

Origin

Native of North Africa, it was brought by Spanish padres to the New World and planted in mission herb gardens. Member of the Liliaceae family.

Themes

Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional, Tropical, Subtropical, Bird, Pool Area.

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