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Plant care · Aloe barbadensis miller

Aloe Vera care guide

A sun-loving succulent with soothing gel. It does well on a bright windowsill.

Quick care

  • Light: Bright light with some direct sun.
  • Water: Soak deeply, then let the soil dry completely, every 2–3 weeks. Water less in winter.
  • Soil: Cactus or succulent mix in a terracotta pot with drainage.
  • Humidity: Low humidity is ideal.
  • Feeding: Once or twice a year with succulent fertilizer.

Is aloe vera safe for pets?

Not pet-safe. Toxic to cats and dogs if eaten (saponins and anthraquinones). See our guide to toxic plants for cats and dogs.

Common problems and fixes

  • Mushy, translucent leaves: Overwatering. Let it dry out and repot if the roots are rotten.
  • Thin, curling leaves: Thirst. Water deeply.
  • Pale, stretched growth: Not enough sun. Move it to your brightest window.

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Reviewed October 7, 2026

Sources

Care and pet-safety guidance was checked against these expert references.