Aloe vera

Scientific name

Aloe vera
(also called Aloe barbadensis Miller )

General description

Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its fleshy leaves filled with a clear gel. Its rosette shape and slightly speckled green foliage give it a clean and decorative appearance. It is a robust plant, prized as much for its beauty as for its ease of care.

Origin

Native to the arid regions of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Interview

• Light : bright light in full sun; appreciates a bright location near a window.

• Watering : Water when the substrate is completely dry; very sensitive to overwatering.

• Humidity : low; prefers a dry environment.

• Temperature : between 18 and 30 °C; protect from cold and frost.

• Substrate : very well-draining mix for succulents (sand, perlite, light potting soil).

Specific advice

• Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent rot.

• The leaves may turn brown if there is too much direct sunlight or a lack of water — adjust according to the environment.

• Remove the offshoots if you wish to limit the spread in the pot.

• Non-toxic internal gel but the yellow sap (latex) can be irritating; ingestion should be avoided by humans and animals.