Aloe

Origin

Aloes belong to the Asphodeloideae family and comprise approximately 450 species. Most aloes are native to southern and eastern Africa, as well as Madagascar. However, they can also be found in the rest of Africa and on the Arabian Peninsula. As a cultivated plant, Aloe vera is primarily grown in all tropical and subtropical regions of the world. You can find a blog article about Aloe vera here .

Appearance

The aloe has long, lance-shaped leaves that are thick and fleshy and contain a gelatinous tissue sap. Many species have serrations on the edges of their leaves, which are mostly arranged in rosettes, rarely also in two rows. The flowering period of the aloe is between March and May. Then an inflorescence develops near the center of the rosette, at the end of which a cluster of orange, yellow or red flowers forms.

Care

Location: Aloes prefer a bright, sunny, and warm location. They also tolerate partially shaded spots. A south-facing window is best. With insufficient light, the aloe cannot grow properly, which is why it should always be placed as brightly as possible.
Substrate: The substrate should be well-draining and contain mineral components in addition to cactus and succulent soil. It should always be ensured that the water can drain well through the substrate to avoid waterlogging.
Watering: Like most succulents, the aloe vera plant doesn't need much water. It's better to underwater than overwater, and only water again when the substrate is completely dry.
Fertilizer: Fertilize approximately every three to four weeks with cactus and succulent fertilizer. However, only during the growing season in the warmer months. Succulents do not need fertilizer during their dormant period.
Summer/Winter: In summer, the succulent can be placed outdoors, but should be brought back indoors at temperatures below 10°C. Before placing it in direct sunlight, the plant should be gradually acclimated to unfiltered sunlight to protect it from sunburn. In winter, the temperature should be around 10°C to 15°C. Overwintering at room temperature is also possible. Watering only occurs when the substrate is completely dry; fertilizing is completely stopped.

Popular species

Aloe aristata: This succulent has a stemless, rosette-shaped growth habit and green leaves with small white spots. During flowering, an inflorescence up to 50 cm high with tubular, orange flowers grows. It can reach a height of up to 20 cm.
Aloe zebrina 'Dannyz': This aloe is a hybrid with a rosette-shaped growth habit. The plant is particularly striking because of its unusual leaves, which are dark green and covered and bordered with yellow or orange elevations. Its maximum height is approximately 30 cm.

Note: The leaf bark of many Aloe species contains a yellowish sap that is slightly toxic. Therefore, we cannot guarantee compatibility with animals.