Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis miller
Medicinal succulent with thick, fleshy leaves containing a soothing gel used for minor burns and skin irritation. Thrives on a sunny kitchen windowsill with minimal care. Produces offsets freely once established.
Best rooms for aloe vera
Light requirements
Best near a window with filtered light — avoid harsh direct rays.
Thrives on a sunny windowsill with several hours of direct sunlight.
How to care for aloe vera
Use a free-draining cactus compost. Water thoroughly then let the top 5cm dry completely before watering again — roughly every 2-3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter. Give maximum light. Minimum temperature 10°C.
Watering
Let the compost dry out completely between waterings. Roughly every 2–4 weeks.
Propagation
- Remove offsets with roots in spring
- Leaf cuttings (slow and unreliable)
Toxicity
The latex layer beneath the skin is toxic if ingested by pets, causing vomiting and diarrhoea.
Common problems
- Mushy leaves from overwatering
- Brown scorched tips in harsh direct sun
- Leggy etiolated growth in low light
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