Aloe vera: the most popular species
Aloe vera (also known as Aloe barbadensis) is one of the world's most widely cultivated succulents. Its thick, fleshy, grey-green leaves are filled with a clear gel that has been used medicinally and cosmetically for thousands of years - the gel has well-documented soothing properties for minor burns and skin irritation. As a houseplant it is grown for both its practical value and its clean architectural form: a rosette of upright, serrated leaves that slowly spreads via offsets to fill its pot. It is an exceptionally easy plant to grow, tolerating neglect and periods of drought with ease.
How to care for Aloe
Aloe need maximum light indoors - a south-facing windowsill is ideal. Without enough light, the rosette opens and flattens as the plant reaches toward the light source, losing its upright form. Water thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry out completely before watering again. In winter, reduce watering to once every four to six weeks or even less. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus compost and ensure the pot has good drainage. Feed with a dilute cactus fertiliser two or three times in the growing season. Aloe are very tolerant of being root-bound and should only be repotted when roots are escaping through the drainage holes.
Other Aloe species worth growing
Beyond Aloe vera, the genus offers some outstanding species for collectors. Aloe aristata (lace aloe) is a compact, stemless species with white-spotted leaves and orange flowers - ideal for small spaces. Aloe variegata (partridge breast aloe) has distinctive dark green leaves with white crossbanding. Aloe polyphylla (spiral aloe) produces an extraordinary mathematical spiral arrangement of leaves. Aloe ferox (bitter aloe) grows into a tall, single-stemmed tree aloe with large orange flower spikes - a dramatic specimen plant.
Harvesting Aloe vera gel
To harvest gel from Aloe vera, select a large outer leaf, cut it cleanly at the base with a sharp knife, and allow the yellow latex (aloin) near the cut end to drain for a few minutes before using the inner gel. The clear gel can be scooped out and applied directly to minor burns, sunburn, or irritated skin. Note that the yellowish latex layer just beneath the skin contains compounds that can be irritating - rinse the gel well if you intend to use it topically. Do not consume Aloe vera gel internally without medical advice.
