Aloe vera, often known as medicinal aloe, is a delightful tropical perennial that grows upright, showcasing rosettes of succulent leaves. The name reflects its rich history in folk medicine. Its lance-shaped green leaves, which can grow up to 18 inches long, are beautifully spotted with white and have charming whitish marginal teeth. Over time, these leaves mature to a lovely gray-green hue, and the plants themselves can reach heights of up to 3 feet.
Flowering typically occurs during summer on mature plants, and it’s essential for container plants to be grown in the best conditions, like sunny windows or outdoor spots, to bloom their brightest. You’ll find striking orange flowers that form in charming clusters atop sturdy stalks, reaching as high as 3 feet.
Medicinal aloe is treasured for the healing and cosmetic properties found in its sap. This sap is commonly added to many commercial cosmetics, especially in soothing lotions and creams, thanks to its ability to hydrate dry skin. If you gently break a leaf, its sap can be applied directly to burns for soothing relief. While the sap isn’t meant for eating, it has been traditionally used to aid in treating peptic ulcers. Many also affectionately refer to medicinal aloe as burn plant or burn aloe.
Height: 1′-2′ Spread: 6″-1′ Bloom: Summer Light: Full Sun Water: Low Zone: 10-12 Origin: Mediterranean
