Aloe vera grows quickly and expansively. To keep the vigorous plant in shape, the outer leaves can be removed regularly. The new leaves constantly grow from the center of the plant.
How does aloe vera grow and reproduce?
Aloe vera grows quickly and constantly forms new leaves in the center of the plant. Regularly removing the outer leaves will keep the plant in shape. Propagation is possible by side shoots or cuttings from outer leaves.
Appearance and growth
Aloe vera has a very short trunk or no stem at all. Its leaves are arranged in a rosette shape. They are
- thick-fleshed,
- wide at the base,
- tapering upwards,
- thorny at the edges.
The red, yellow or orange flowers appear on the tall inflorescences annually in spring.
Cutting and propagation
A sexually mature aloe vera regularly forms new side shoots that can be used for propagation. Cuttings can also be taken from the outer leaves. The leaves can also be harvested regularly for internal and external use. New leaves constantly grow from the inside out.
Tip
The Aloe aristata is a particularly small type of aloe. Aloe arborescens and Aloe ferox are extremely large Aloe species.
