Aloe Vera

🌿 Botanical Name: Aloe barbadensis miller

Description: Aloe Vera is a succulent plant renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly its gel, which is widely used for soothing burns, cuts, and other skin ailments. This hardy plant features thick, fleshy leaves that are green to grey-green, often displaying white flecks. Its ease of care and practical uses make Aloe Vera a popular plant for indoor and outdoor gardening.

🐾 Pet Warning: Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea. It's advisable to keep this plant out of reach of pets.

💧 Care Level: Easy. Aloe Vera is low maintenance and well-suited for beginners or those seeking a carefree houseplant.

📏 Approximate Size: Typically grows to about 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) in height and width. The size can vary depending on the pot size and growing conditions.

🌞 Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn brown and dry out.

💧 Water: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so err on the side of underwatering.

💦 Humidity: Prefers dry conditions; does not require high humidity. Aloe Vera is very adaptable and can thrive in the typical humidity levels found in most homes.

🌡️ Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 55°F to 80°F (13°C to 27°C). Protect from frost and freezing temperatures, as it is not cold-hardy.

❄️ Hardiness: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9-11 as an outdoor plant. In cooler climates, it's best grown indoors or in a greenhouse.

🌱 Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly, no more than once every month during the spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant.

🔄 Re-potting: Re-pot in the spring or early summer, every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix designed for succulents or cacti.

🌱 Propagation: Easily propagated by removing offsets (pups) from the base of the plant and potting them separately. Allow the offsets to dry for a day or two before potting to prevent rot.