Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera)
General (Botanical / Naturalist View):
 Aloe barbadensis, more commonly known as Aloe vera, is a succulent perennial native to the Arabian Peninsula but widely naturalized in arid and subtropical regions worldwide. Belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, it forms rosettes of thick, fleshy, blue-green leaves with soft serrations along the margins. The plant stores water in its leaves, which contain the well-known soothing gel used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. In warm climates, mature plants send up tall flower spikes bearing tubular yellow to orange blooms that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
Designer (Landscape / Aesthetic View):
 Aloe vera adds sculptural texture and a clean architectural element to dry gardens, containers, and rock landscapes. Its symmetrical rosettes and bright bloom spikes make it ideal as a focal accent or mass planting in water-wise designs. The plant’s soothing green tones pair beautifully with cacti, agaves, and other desert perennials, contributing to a cohesive drought-tolerant palette.
Maintenance (Gardener / Care View):
 Aloe barbadensis thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers sandy, well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering—allowing the soil to dry between waterings helps prevent root rot. Prune away spent flower stalks or damaged leaves as needed. Protect from frost and overwatering in cooler or humid climates. Propagation is easy through offsets (“pups”) that form around the base.
Quick Reference:


Life cycle: Perennial succulent

Bloom time & color: Spring–summer; yellow to orange tubular blooms

Mature size: Grows up to 2–3 ft tall by 2–3 ft wide

Water / Light / Soil: Low; full sun to partial shade; well-drained sandy or gravelly soil