Aloe vera (Aloe vera) | plant

• Latin name: Aloe vera
  
• Danish names: Aloe vera, medicinal aloe
  
• English names: Aloe vera
  

Aloe vera is one of the world's most well-known and widely used succulents. It originates from the Arabian Peninsula but is cultivated today in many parts of the world for its well-known nourishing and healing properties. The plant is both decorative and practical, making it a classic in any plant collection.

Appearance and growth

Aloe vera forms a rosette of thick, succulent leaves in a fresh green to slightly grey-green color. The leaves are lance-shaped with small, soft thorns along the edges and contain a clear gel for which the plant is particularly known.

The plant typically grows 30–60 cm tall and can eventually produce offsets, which develop into new plants. Under good conditions, it can bloom with long flower stalks featuring yellow to orange, tubular flowers.

Usage

Aloe vera is known for its gel, which is found inside the leaves. The gel is traditionally used for skincare and can have a cooling and soothing effect on, for example, sunburns and minor skin irritations. The plant is therefore both a decorative and practical "first-aid plant" for the home.

Cultivation and care

• Light: Thrives best in a bright environment with plenty of indirect light. Can tolerate direct sun in moderate amounts.
• Temperature: Prefers 18–30 °C and cannot tolerate frost.
• Soil: Well-drained cactus or succulent soil with sand or gravel.
• Watering: Water sparingly. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
• Fertilizer: Use a mild organic succulent fertilizer during the growing season.
• Overwintering: Keep in a bright, dry place at a minimum of approx. 10 °C.

Note

Aloe vera is a very undemanding and robust plant that requires minimal care. It is ideal for both beginners and experienced plant owners and thrives well on windowsills and in bright rooms. Aloe vera is a timeless and versatile succulent that combines a beautiful, simple look with practical utility – a plant that is both decorative and useful.

Note: The images are meant as examples of the plant and do not necessarily represent the exact plant being purchased.