Aloe Plants
Every home can use the bright green splash of color provided by an aloe plant!
While most plant lovers are familiar with the Aloe vera plant, there are actually many more types of aloes all over the world.
Aloe plants are a type of “succulent”– meaning they have thickened, fleshy leaves that are designed to hold onto moisture. Because they can store their own reserve of water, succulents are better at surviving in hot and dry climates, like the desert.
Aloe vera plant:
What do you notice about the plant?
What colors do you see?
What textures?
What is the base of the plant like?
How do the leaves grow from the stem?
Leaves
The aloe leaves are thick. If you break one open, you will see clear flesh that leaks out a clear gel. This is the substance that some people even apply to burns (or buy from the stores as sunburn gel).
The leaves are usually green, and have whitish-yellow speckles on them.
When the potting soil gets dry, the leaves develop a brownish tint, which is a great hint that it is time to water your plant.
Stem
As an aloe plant grows larger, older leaves at the base will dry up and turn brown. Slowly over time, the leftover bases of these leaves build up to form a brown, more solid “trunk” to support the plant’s new leaves.
Flowers?
Yes, the aloe plant does eventually flowers. It will be a pleasant surprise when it happens!
Growing Tips for Aloe Plants
Aloe plants can be outside in the late spring, summer and early fall, but they will need to be indoors during cold periods, if your climate has those. They can also just stay inside all year if you have a bright sunny spot for them to thrive.
Young aloe plants and seedlings will need moisture in order to grow as they get started. Then aloe plants will tolerate being watered less often, about every two weeks (or when the leaves take on a brown tinge of color).
Although aloe plants can be started from seed, it may be fastest and easiest to find a healthy one at your favorite local garden supply store, plant nursery or market.
Other Types of Aloe
While Aloe vera is the most well-known variety, there are actually many different kinds of aloe plants. There are different shapes, leaf colors and sizes that can be found around the world. Here are a few other varieties.
What do you notice about them that is similar to the aloe plant above? What differences do you see?
White Fox Aloe
Aloe rauhii
Cat’s Tail Aloe
Aloe castanea
Soap Aloe
Aloe maculata
Hedgehog Aloe
Aloe humilis