It prefers a rough, gritty growing medium and a well-drained, sunny location. It will also grow in partial shade. Aloe needs temperatures above 40 degrees, and is grown indoors in cooler climates. When grown indoors the offshoots can be removed and repotted when they are a few inches tall. Do not overwater.
Harvesting Cut the leaves as required.
The fresh juice of the leaf blades can be applied directly to ulcers, burns, sunburn, and fungal infection. Aloe-emodin, an ingredient in aloe, is a powerful laxative and should always be used with caution. It can be combined with a tincture of caraway seed to prevent intestinal cramps and pain. Taken in small doses, it is an excellent digestive tonic.