Light. Grows in full sun to partial shade and tolerates shade. Move potted plants into brighter light gradually, since a sudden change can sunburn the leaves.
Water. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry, then water thoroughly. Never let a pot sit in water.
Soil and feeding. Any well-drained soil or potting mix works, and it thrives in poor soil. Repot no more than two pot sizes up, since a big pot holds too much water.
Size. Grows slowly to about 2 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide. Plant 12–18 in apart for a groundcover.
Problems to watch. Caterpillars occasionally chew holes in young, tender leaves. No diseases are of major concern.
Good to know. It is only moderately salt tolerant. Outdoor plants send up yellow or red flower stalks in late winter or spring. Divide offsets to start new plants.
Sources: UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Aloe · UF/IFAS Fact Sheet FPS-34: Aloe barbadensis (archived copy)
