Aloe Vera

Herbs
Botanical Name 
Aloe barbadensis
Family 
Liliaceae
Other Names 
alwat, miracle plant, burn plant, medicinal aloe
Category 
Tender perennial, succulent, houseplant, tropical
Hardiness Zones 
USDA 9-11
Light Requirements 
Full sun to light shade
Water Requirements 
Moderate, dought tolerant
Description 

This drought-resitant succulent forms clumps of fleshy, narrow, pointed grey-green leaves 1-2 feet long with small teeth along the edges.

 

Planting and Propagation 
Planting Depth Plant Height Plant Spacing Days to Germinate Preservation Method
Do not cover 24-48 in. 48 in. 30-180 Use Fresh

Although this plant can be grown from seed or leaf cuttings, it is far less complicated to remove the offshoots, or pups, from the base of the plant and transplant them. Once the pups get a few inches tall you can gently pull them from under the plant, trying to get as much root as possible. Let them sit out for a day or so to let the root wounds callous over then pot up in a sandy, well draining soil.