Succulents – 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