Aloe vera is easy to grow, forming dense clumps of fleshy, light green leaves with soft toothed margins. Spikes of tubular yellow to orange flowers appear in summer, but rarely in the UK. Markings on the foliage can vary in the species – some have glaucous, pale foliage while others have rich green leaves flecked with pale spots.
For best results, grow Aloe vera indoors as a houseplant, or in well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny part of the garden. Ideally, grow plants in terracotta pots, which you can use in patio displays in summer, and move indoors in winter.
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Aloe and wildlife
Aloe has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
