Aloe Vera at a glance
| Botanical name | Aloe vera |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Other names | aloe, Barbados aloe |
| Plant type | Houseplant; succulent perennial (houseplant) |
| Size | 1 to 2 feet tall, 1 to 2.5 feet wide |
| Light | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun); Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun) |
| Water | Water deeply, then let the soil dry completely before watering again. |
| Soil | Fast-draining cactus or succulent mix in a pot with a drainage hole. |
| USDA hardiness zones | Outdoors only in zones 10 to 12; elsewhere a houseplant. |
| USDA PLANTS symbol | ALVE2 |
When to plant aloe vera
Repot in spring or summer.
How to grow aloe vera
- Pot in a cactus mix in a container with a drainage hole.
- Place in a bright window; move outdoors gradually in summer if you like.
- Water only when the soil is fully dry.
- Remove offsets (pups) at the base to make new plants.
- Bring outdoor plants in before frost.
Water and soil
Water: Water deeply, then let the soil dry completely before watering again.
Soil: Fast-draining cactus or succulent mix in a pot with a drainage hole.
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun); Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun).
Common problems
- Mushy leaves
- Too much water. Let the soil dry and check the roots.
- Pale, stretched leaves
- Not enough light. Move to a brighter spot.
Is aloe vera safe for cats and dogs?
Toxic
Toxic
The ASPCA lists Aloe (Aloe vera) as toxic to cats and toxic to dogs. Signs it lists include: vomiting , lethargy, diarrhea. ASPCA entry.
NC State Extension rates its poison severity for people and animals as low.
If a pet chews a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; a fee may apply). For people, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Can you eat aloe vera?
Do not eat the plant. The ASPCA notes the gel is considered edible, but the leaf and its latex cause stomach upset.
Aloe Vera questions
Is aloe vera toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists aloe as toxic to cats and dogs; it can cause vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea.
How often should I water aloe vera?
Only when the soil is dry all the way down, often every 2 to 3 weeks indoors and less in winter.
Can aloe vera live outside?
Year-round only in zones 10 to 12. In colder areas, it can spend summer outdoors and must come in before frost.
Sources
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Aloe vera (size, light, soil, zones, poison rating)
- USDA PLANTS Database profile: Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (accepted name)
- ASPCA: Aloe (pet toxicity)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to cats
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
