Aloe barbadensis ALOE VERA (10 seeds)

Aloe vera, also known as Aloe barbadensis, is a perennial succulent plant belonging to the Aloeaceae family. Its origins are likely Egyptian or Greek. It reaches about 50 centimeters in height at maturity, and its growth is relatively slow.

Its odorless yellow flowers bloom during the winter period, with the flower spike reaching a height of 80 cm.

Aloe vera seeds are light, flat, and mostly triangular, measuring an average of 3 to 4 millimeters in length. They are black and are found inside long brown pods.

The leaves are smooth, green with white spots, and thick because they contain a gel that serves as a water reserve during periods of drought.

- Properties and Uses:

It possesses impressive medical qualities. It is well-known for its healing and moisturizing virtues, particularly for treating burns and wounds.
A translucent, yellowish, sticky gel is collected from the green parts of the leaf for its therapeutic properties.
This pulp benefits the body by treating numerous ailments through both internal and external use.
The cooling effect of this herb relieves many minor aches and pains.

- Sowing and seeds Germination:

• The ideal period to sow Aloe vera is from the beginning of June to the end of July, when temperatures are very warm. Before this period, the seeds will remain dormant and will not grow.
• Soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water to break their dormancy.
• Sow in small pots filled with a mix of potting soil and fine sand. Plant them in groups of 3 or 4, ensuring the bottom of the pot is well-drained with small stones.
• Gently water the culture using a hand sprayer.
• Keep the pots in a location where the temperature is at least 30°C. Using a greenhouse is ideal.
• Germination typically begins after 4 to 6 weeks.

- Soil and Substrate:

It is best to use a very well-draining soil consisting of fine sand and well-sifted potting soil.

- Light and Exposure:

Aloe barbadensis needs plenty of bright light but no direct sunlight. If there is too much sun, the leaves will turn red; conversely, the leaves will become weak and stretched (etiolated) if there is a lack of light.

- Cultivation Temperature and Hardiness:

The ideal temperature for effective growth is 27°C. Remember to bring the plant indoors during the winter, as this succulent is frost-sensitive.

- Watering and Irrigation:

It requires water only when the soil is very dry or when the leaves begin to look thin. Generally, watering twice a year (semiannual) is sufficient. Do not water it during the winter.

- Propagation:

The best ways to multiply the plant are through sowing seeds or dividing the offshoots (pups). Unfortunately, it cannot be propagated by cuttings, neither from roots nor from leaves.