Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is a perennial evergreen succulent in the asphodel family, Asphodelaceae. A. barbadensis is native to the Arabian peninsula, but is now widely distributed around the world. The plant reaches 2 to 3 feet tall at maturity with a 36 inch diameter. Aloe barbadensis has long triangular leaves that have fleshy teeth on the margin and are arranged in a rosette formation. A. barbadensis blooms in late spring to early summer with cone-like inflorescence that houses small yellow flowers. This species is grown as an ornamental, medical, and culinary plant. The leaves can be processed into a gel that helps alleviate burns and is a common ingredient found in lotions, gels, and soaps. The leaf pulp is also mixed into sweet drinks and used as a laxative. Aloe barbadensis grows best in well draining sandy soil, sitting in full sun to partial shade. Water the plant adequately during summer and sparingly during winter. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Aloe barbadensis seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown directly on top of the potting mixture and lightly covered with a thin layer of sand or potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 5 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING DISCLAIMER:
All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.