Aloe

Overview

Aloe forms rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves full of clear gel. It needs very little water and multiplies by producing small offsets around its base.

History

Aloe likely comes from the Arabian Peninsula and has been grown worldwide for thousands of years for its soothing gel.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Needs well-drained, sandy or rocky soil; rots in wet ground.
• Thrives in sunny, dry leeward spots and pots.

Planting and propagation

• Separate pups from the parent with some roots and plant them in dry, well-drained soil.
• Let any cut surfaces dry for a day first.

Care and maintenance

• Water only during long droughts.
• Remove pups to replant or share.

Role in the guild

Grow aloe along dry, sunny edges and paths, or in pots near the kitchen.

Harvest

Cut a mature outer leaf at the base when you need gel.

Uses

• Skin care: fresh gel soothes minor burns and sunburn.
• Garden: drought-tolerant edge plant.

Important caution

Use the clear gel on skin only. The yellow layer just under the leaf skin (latex) is a strong laxative. Don’t eat aloe leaves or latex.

Problems to watch

• Root rot in soggy soil.
• Mealybugs and scale occasionally.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.