Scientific name: Aloe vera — also known as Aloe barbadensis miller Aloe vera is one of the most famous succulents in the world, and perhaps the most useful plant you can keep on a kitchen windowsill. It comes from the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa, where strong sun and little rain taught the plant to store water in its thick leaves. That origin explains how to care for it: plenty of light, little water, and soil that does not hold water. If you are looking for a plant that tolerates forgotten watering and still offers the famous aloe gel in its leaves, this is one of the best choices.
Light
Plenty of bright light; near a south- or east-facing window is best. It enjoys gentle morning sun, but harsh midday summer sun through glass can scorch the leaves and turn them brown.
Watering
Little. Let the soil dry out completely, then water. In summer, once every 2 to 3 weeks is usually enough, and in winter even less. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for aloe vera, because the roots rot in wet soil.
Soil
Light and well-draining. Cactus and succulent soil, or potting soil mixed with sand and perlite, works well. The pot must have a drainage hole, and you should empty extra water from the saucer.
Temperature
15 to 27 degrees Celsius. Keep it away from cold below 5 degrees, because its water-filled leaves are sensitive to cold and freeze.
Humidity
Ordinary indoor air is enough. It needs no misting, and high humidity increases rotting.
Propagation
Offsets (pups): The most common and reliable method. A mature aloe vera produces small offsets beside the main plant. When repotting in spring, separate an offset with its own roots, let the wound dry for a day, then plant it in dry, well-draining soil and do not water for the first few days.; Seed: Aloe vera seeds can also be sown, but germination is slow and not a practical method for most homes.; Leaf cuttings: Aloe vera leaves usually do not root and are not a reliable method; prefer offsets.
Where to Keep It
- Apartment: The best place; a bright kitchen windowsill or a sunny room. Aloe vera tolerates gentle direct sun, but in very low light its leaves grow thin and pale.
- Terrace and balcony: Only in mild seasons and in gentle sun. In the harsh summer sun of Shiraz, midday sun damages it, and in winter it must come back inside.
- Garden: Only in warm, frost-free climates. In Shiraz, where winters get cold, garden planting is not suitable and the plant should stay indoors.
Feeding
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed once every 2 to 3 months with a diluted fertiliser made for cacti and succulents. Do not feed in autumn and winter, when growth slows; extra fertiliser burns the roots.
Planting and Repotting
The best time for planting and repotting is spring. Aloe vera grows at a medium pace and usually needs a larger pot only once every 2 to 3 years; choose just one size up. A pot that is much too large holds water and rots the roots.
The Leaf Gel: One Important Note
The clear gel inside the aloe vera leaf is the substance used to soothe skin. But the yellow sap just under the leaf skin (latex) is an irritant. After cutting a leaf, wait a little so the yellow sap drains out, and use only the clear gel. Aloe vera gel does not replace medical treatment; for a deep wound or a severe burn, see a doctor.
Toxicity for Children and Pets
Aloe vera is considered toxic to cats and dogs; eating its leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. If you have a pet, keep the plant out of its reach, and if your pet eats leaves and feels unwell, consult a vet. For a small child, keep the leaves out of reach as well.