Succulents & Cacti
Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis miller
Sun-loving succulent with soothing gel; water rarely, deeply.
- Typical watering
- Every ~14 days
- Light
- bright direct
- Difficulty
- easy
- Safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
Care tips
- Give it the sunniest sill you have
- Soak, then let it dry completely
- Plump leaves = happy aloe
Common questions
How often should I water an aloe vera? +
A healthy indoor aloe vera typically wants water every 14 days or so. Treat that as a starting cadence, not a rule — pot size, light, and season all shift it, so check the soil before you pour.
How much light does an aloe vera need? +
An aloe vera does best in bright direct light. If it stretches, fades, or stalls, adjust its spot before changing anything else.
Is an aloe vera toxic to cats or dogs? +
Yes — the aloe vera is considered toxic to cats and dogs (per the ASPCA plant lists). Keep it out of reach, and call your vet if you suspect a pet has chewed it.
Typical guidance for a healthy aloe vera — your own conditions (and your vet, for animals) come first.
Related guides
- Burro's Tail Braided ropes of plump beads spill over the pot - gorgeous, but every bump sheds leaves.
- Cactus The ultimate low-maintenance sunbather.
- Christmas Cactus A jungle cactus, not a desert one - it drinks more than you'd think and blooms on cue in winter.
- Echeveria Perfect pastel rosettes that stay perfect only with real sun and a stingy watering can.
- Jade Plant A miniature tree with coin-like leaves that can outlive its owner on a sunny sill.
- Kalanchoe Supermarket-cheap clusters of long-lasting blooms on a succulent that reflowers with a dark trick.