Overview

Aloe vera is a tufted cactus succulent in the genus Aloe, part of the Asphodelaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Aloe vera grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include conservatories, greenhouses, houseplants and outdoor summer displays.

About

Aloe vera, commonly known as Barbados aloe, is a tufted succulent from the Aloe genus in the Asphodelaceae family. This evergreen plant typically grows to between 0.5 and 1 metre in height and spread, reaching full size within 5 to 10 years. It thrives in full sun with a west or south-facing aspect and prefers sheltered locations. Aloe vera grows best in well-drained loam soils of varying pH, including acid, alkaline, and neutral conditions. It is suitable for cultivation as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses.

About the genus

Aloe is a genus containing over 650 species of flowering succulent plants. The most widely known species is Aloe vera, or "true aloe". It is called this because it is cultivated as the standard source for assorted pharmaceutical purposes.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aloe", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aloe

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aloe

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

West-facing, South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1a

Plant details

Aloe vera size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Cactus Succulent, Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Tufted

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.5-1 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

Conservatories, Greenhouses, Houseplants, Outdoor summer displays

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aloe vera

Propagation

Offsets, seeds

Pest resistance

Scale insects, Mealybugs

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions