Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.
Plant Information
| Scientific Name: | Aloe vera |
| Family Name: | Asphodelaceae |
| Common Name(s): | Aloe, Burn Plant, Lily of the Desert |
| Size: | Up to 2 feet tall |
| Plant Type: | Succulent, Herbaceous Perennial |
| Origin/Geographic Distribution: | Native to the Arabian Peninsula |
| Native to: | Arabian Peninsula |
| Native range in the USA: | Not native to the USA, but widely cultivated |
| Conservation Status: | Some wild species of Aloe are under threat due to habitat destruction and illegal harvesting, primarily for the medicinal and ornamental plant trade. For Aloe Vera itself, its widespread cultivation largely protects it from the pressures that endanger many of its wild relatives. |
Cultivation
| Planting: | Spring or early summer |
| Sun Exposure: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type: | Well-drained, sandy or gravelly |
| Soil pH: | Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5) |
| Water Requirements: | Low (drought-tolerant once established) |
| Fertilizer Requirements: | Low; feed with a succulent fertilizer in spring (optional) |
| Pruning Requirements: | Minimal; remove spent leaves as necessary |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Companion Planting: | Compatible with other succulents and drought-tolerant plants |
Tolerance and Hardiness
| Drought Tolerance: | High |
| Frost Tolerance: | Low; does not tolerate frost (below 32°F / 0°C) |
| Heat Tolerance: | High; up to 104°F / 40°C |
| Wind Tolerance: | Medium |
| Salt Tolerance: | Low |
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: | 9 to 12 |
Flower and Fruit Information
| Fruit Type: | Not typically produced in cultivation |
| Harvest Time: | N/A |
| Fruit Description: | Does not bear fruit |
| Edible Plant: | Yes (aloe gel) |
| Edible Parts: | Inner leaf gel |
| Medicinal: | Yes, used for skin treatment and minor burns |
| Flower Color: | Gold/Yellow, Orange, Red/Burgundy |
| Flower Shape: | Tubular |
| Fragrance: | Raceme |
| Flower Bloom Time: | Spring to early summer |
| Bloom Duration: | Several weeks |
| Pollination: Self or Other? |
Bees and other insects |
Wildlife
| Attracts: | Bees |
| Pollinators: | Bees and other insects |
| Problematic Pest: | Aphids and mealybugs |
Health and Safety
| Toxic: | No |
| Poisonous Parts of Plant: | None |
| Toxic to Humans: | No |
| Toxic to Animals: | Yes, can be toxic to pets if ingested |
| Plant Diseases to be aware of: | Scale, leaf spot, aloe rust, sooty mold. |
Aloe (Aloe Vera)
Aloe Vera, scientifically known as Aloe vera, is a succulent plant species belonging to the Xanthorrhoeaceae family. Often hailed as the "lily of the desert," this plant thrives in hot, dry climates, but has also become popular as a household plant due to its minimal care requirements and medicinal benefits.
Aloe Vera plants feature thick, fleshy leaves that fan out from the plant’s central stem. The green to grey-green leaves may have white flecks on their upper and lower stem surfaces. The edges of the leaves are serrated with small white teeth, making it both distinctive and attractive as a decorative plant.
Whether you're looking to enhance your garden’s aesthetic, start a herbal remedy kit, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of succulents, Aloe Vera is an excellent choice. Its enduring appeal and practical benefits ensure that it remains a favorite in homes and gardens worldwide.
Companion Planting
Companion planting with Aloe Vera can enhance the health and growth of your garden by taking advantage of its natural properties and the benefits it offers. Here are some ideal companion plants for Aloe Vera and the reasons they pair well together:
1. Cacti and Other Succulents
Compatibility: Like Aloe Vera, most cacti and other succulent varieties require similar growing conditions, such as well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Growing them together creates a harmonious aesthetic and ensures they thrive due to similar care needs.
Examples: Agave, Echeveria, and Sedum.
2. Lavender
Benefits: Lavender thrives in conditions similar to those favored by Aloe Vera—full sun and well-drained soil. Its strong scent can also help deter pests that might otherwise bother Aloe Vera plants.
Complementary Aesthetics: The contrasting soft purple blooms of lavender against the stark green of Aloe Vera can enhance the visual appeal of your garden.
3. Rosemary
Drought Tolerance: Rosemary and Aloe Vera both have high drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Pest Deterrence: Rosemary’s aromatic properties can help repel certain pests, offering a protective benefit to neighboring plants like Aloe Vera.
4. Yucca
Similar Growing Conditions: Yucca plants share Aloe Vera’s preference for sun and well-drained soil, making them easy to care for when planted together.
Visual Texture: Yucca's upright form contrasts nicely with the more sprawling growth pattern of Aloe Vera.
5. Zebra Plant (Haworthiopsis)
Low Water Needs: Both plants are succulents with low watering requirements, making them ideal partners in a xeriscape or dry environment garden.
Visual Diversity: The detailed, stripe-like markings of Zebra Plant leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the smoother, broader leaves of Aloe Vera.
Considerations
When planting Aloe Vera with companions, ensure that all plants in the vicinity share similar needs in terms of light, water, and soil type. This commonality is crucial for reducing competition and promoting mutual growth and health. Also, avoid planting Aloe Vera near more water-loving plants, as their needs can conflict and lead to poor health or disease.
Companion planting with Aloe Vera not only optimizes the health and beauty of your garden but also utilizes the natural benefits that these plants can offer each other.