Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant species native to southern Africa, but grows throughout the world in warm, dry climates. It is famous for the gel inside its leaves which has been prized for centuries for its medicinal properties. Here’s a closer look at this easy-to-care-for plant and how to keep it thriving:

Description:

• Leaves: Aloe vera has thick, fleshy, sword-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern from a central stem. The leaves are typically a blue-green color and have a smooth, waxy coating.
• Flowers: Aloe vera may produce yellow flowers in spikes during the summer, but these are not a prominent feature of the plant.
• Size: Aloe vera plants can grow to be 1-2 feet tall and wide.

Growing Tips:

• Light: Aloe vera prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure for extended periods, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves.
• Water: As a succulent, aloe vera stores water in its leaves and does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering is a leading cause of problems. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, you may only need to water your aloe vera plant once a month or even less.
• Soil: Plant your aloe vera in a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix.
• Temperature: Aloe vera prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C). It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
• Fertilizer: Aloe vera is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. A weak, balanced fertilizer applied once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient.

Additional Tips:

• Aloe vera is a slow-growing succulent plant.
• Repot your aloe vera plant only when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot with drainage holes that is only slightly larger than the root ball.
• You can propagate aloe vera by removing offsets (pups) from the base of the mother plant.

Uses of Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries for a variety of medicinal purposes. Some of the most common uses include:

• Soothing sunburns
• Moisturizing dry skin
• Promoting healing of wounds and minor cuts
• Reducing inflammation