- Aloe Vera
Botanical name: aloe barbadensis
Beginner friendly?: yes
Average size at maturity: up to 39 inches in height and a 20-inch spread
Bloom time: spring, summer. Will not bloom until the plant is at least 4 years old.
Hardy zone: zones 8 – 12
Flower color: yellow, orange, red, green
Foliage color: green, blue, gray/silver
Growth rate: takes 3 – 4 growing seasons to reach maturity
Pruning instructions: trim off brown spots and wilting bottom leaves as needed
Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge
Landscape use: succulent garden
Light needs: about 6 hours of sun a day
Special features: medical benefits
Watering instructions: monthly watering
Fertilizing instructions : use a diluted cacti fertilizer after planting and repeat once a year in the spring
Best time to plant: spring or summer
Best type of soil: loam, sand
Companion plants: snake plant, hens and chicks, crassula
Toxicity level: non-toxic to humans and pets
Invasive species: no
