Aloe

Class

Monocotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Asphodelaceae

Order

Asparagales

Genus

Aloe

Species

true

Description

Aloe vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis and Aloe vulgaris, is an evergreen perennial species used as a houseplant in areas with cold winters.
It features terminal rosettes of pointed, succulent leaves with serrated edges, which make it a focal point of great ornamental value.
It is also valued in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors. For some years now, it has been recognised for the therapeutic properties of its leaf extracts, from which a gel is derived that has moisturising, soothing and protective effects on the skin and mucous membranes.

Curiosities and special features

The inner part (parenchyma) of Aloe vera leaves contains a gel-like substance that is widely used in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries due to its chemical composition, which gives it healing and medicinal properties; when applied topically, it appears to have a soothing and moisturising effect on the skin, helping to alleviate redness, itching, inflammation and wounds.
Aloe vera juice is used as a dietary supplement.
Its use should always be subject to medical advice.

Origin and distribution

A species native to northern Oman, where it grows in the desert biome.

Leaf

The evergreen leaves, arranged in rosettes, have an elongated, lanceolate blade with a spiny, serrated margin.

Leaf colour

Uniform colour, matt green.

Plant height

The plant grows to a height of between 0.5 and 1.1 metres.

Lifespan

Evergreen, polyennial Species.

Where to plant

Given its size and the sinuous shape created by its leaves, Aloe vera is recommended for growing in pots, planters, large vases and indoor planters.

Stem

The central stem issemi-woody; this variety has needle-like spines distributed along the edges of the leaves.

Flower

The flower is simple in shape, small to medium in size, with a tubular corolla. It grows in large racemes or clusters. It flowers from early summer to late summer.

Growth

Medium-vigorous Growth plant.

Plant habit

It develops an upright growth habit characterised by elongated leaves.

Branching

A plant witha moderate number of branches.

Soil preparation

Use a growing medium with a pH of between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sun exposure

Suitable for the following types of placement: east/south-east facing, indoor light sources, outdoors on balconies or terraces in temperate climates, and indoors during the colder months. Avoid direct sunlight but ensure plenty of filtered light.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 18 and 25 °C. The survival temperature is between 10 and 38 °C.

It cannot tolerate extreme cold; the minimum temperature at which it can survive is, on average, between 5 and 10 °C.

Use

A plant with a wide range of uses, it is valued in:
Cosmetics Medicinal / phytotherapeutic sector Ornamental use Indoor ornamental use Interior landscape design

Hardiness

Of moderate hardiness.

Soil

Use a new potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents, which ensures excellent drainage of excess water to prevent waterlogging and subsequent root rot.

Difficulty

It is fairly easy to grow, provided it is given the right care. Aloe vera does not tolerate the cold or being moved around frequently.

Growing tips

Some useful and specific tips for getting the best growth from your Aloe vera plant:
Balanced fertilisation Ensure at least 6 hours of direct sunlight Prefers a warm, dry climate Requires little but regular fertiliser Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day

Pruning

Use sharp, clean secateurs to remove any yellowed or dry leaves.

Propagation

Vegetative propagation is carried out by separating the suckers that grow at the base of the mature plant.

Watering

Aloe vera is a xerophytic plant that does not require abundant watering and can withstand temporary drought.

Water the plant directly into the soil without overwatering, to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Check the moisture level of the soil – perhaps by touching it – before watering. Reduce watering during the winter dormant period.

Fertilising

It is a plant that does not require much fertiliser; therefore, it can be fertilised during the spring and summer growing season by adding a specific liquid fertiliser to the potting mix, diluted in the watering water, but without exceeding the recommended dose or frequency.

Fertilise when the growing medium is not dry.