There are more than 650 types of aloe, but only a few have healing properties. Aloe vera is usually in stock at Growing Hobby. Others with medicinal properties include Aloe arborescens and Aloe ferox (wild aloe).

Aloe can take up to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you see the leaves begin to turn reddish-orange, reduce the time in the sun.

Aloe can withstand temps down to 33°F. Its leaves are filled with liquid that can freeze the plant from the inside out.

We water our aloe very sparingly, once each week if outside, once each month if indoors.

Most aloe leaves contain latex which is a laxative. This can be toxic to animals.

Century plant (Agave americana) – These agave typically flower after a decade of growth. The inflorescence, or flower stalk, can grow to 30 ft.

Queen Victoria – This chunky, rigid agave has spines at the tips and distinct white geometric lines along its thick stems.

Hedgehog Agave – Like a big spiky ball, these are cute as a hedgehog – but not as cuddly.

full sun

The century plant is winter hardy to 22 degrees. Other agaves are less hardy, and we recommend protecting them at temperatures below 40 degrees.

Outdoor agave do well when taking in water as it rains. Watering 1-2 times per month is sufficient for agave during dry spells or when placed in covered areas.

Agave sap may cause skin irritation, and its spines can cause infection if a fragment remains under the skin. Agave is commonly distilled to make Mexcal such as tequila.

Aeonium zwartkop or Black Rose has very dark leaves while A. kiwi has citrus-colored leaves when left in direct sunlight. A. arboreum has jumbo sized rosettes, and the bush can grow to 3 ft in containers.

Full to partial sun. Signs of too much sun are white or brown marks on the tips of the leaves.

These plants like a Mediterranean climate – 65-75°F with mild humidity. Their growth season is late winter to early spring.

Aeoniums store water in the stem, so the soil needs moist but not waterlogged.

Non-toxic for humans and pets.