As well as being a medicinal plant, Aloe vera (synonymous with Aloe barbadensis) grows in tall, vase-shaped rosettes of light green foliage that are an elegant addition to a succulent or rock garden. Leaves are lined with small teeth at the margins and take on different colors depending on temperature and light conditions: Pink and purple tones in hot, sunny conditions and powdery green-blue in cool, part shade conditions. Blooms in spring with spikes of bright, lemon yellow flowers. Although drought tolerant, it prefers occasional water over the summer. Grow in well-drained, even gravelly soil in full sun or light shade. Flowers are a nectar source for birds and bees. Note: This is not the same white-spotted Aloe that is often sold as Aloe vera. That plant is actually a different Aloe of unknown origin.
- Common Name:
- Aloe Vera
- Mature Height:
- 1-2'
- Mature Spread:
- 1-2'
- Exposure:
- Sun/Part Sun
- Growth:
- Evergreen
- Flower Color:
- Yelllow
- Foliage Color:
- Green/Grey
