Aloe (Aloe vera) is one of the best known houseplants of all, grown for its thick, fleshy grey-green leaves arranged in a bold upright rosette.

It is a true succulent, storing water in its leaves so it copes well with an occasional missed watering and suits anyone who wants an easy, forgiving plant for a bright spot indoors.

It arrives as an established plant ready to place on a windowsill, kitchen shelf, desk or any bright room. Give it bright, indirect light rather than prolonged harsh direct sun, and plant it into a free-draining cactus or succulent compost. Water sparingly, letting the compost dry out fully between waterings, as it is far more likely to suffer from overwatering than neglect.

Feeding is rarely needed, at most a dilute succulent feed once or twice during the growing season. Mature plants may produce tubular yellow to orange flowers in summer, and over time can produce offsets, or pups, at the base which can be potted on separately.

Aloe vera is toxic to cats, dogs and rabbits if eaten, so it is worth keeping it out of reach of pets that like to chew on houseplants.

Cultural Information

• Botanical Name: Aloe vera
• Common Name: Aloe Vera
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 60-100cm tall and 60-90cm wide (conditions dependent)
• Growth Habit: Upright, rosette-forming succulent
• Perfect For: Windowsills, kitchens, offices and bright indoor rooms
• Foliage: Thick, fleshy grey-green to green lance-shaped leaves
• Flowering Time: Summer, on mature plants only
• Flower Colour: Yellow to orange
• Planting Position: Bright, indirect light
• Soil Type: Free-draining cactus or succulent compost
• Hardiness: Tender indoor plant, keep above about 5C
• Maintenance: Low. Water sparingly and let the compost dry out between waterings
• Type: Evergreen Succulent Houseplant