Aloe vera stores water in its thick, spiky leaves, making it one of the most forgiving houseplants for anyone who tends to forget a watering can — and one of the most useful, thanks to the soothing gel inside each leaf.
Native to the Arabian Peninsula, aloe vera has been cultivated for thousands of years for its skin-soothing gel, and today it thrives as a low-fuss houseplant almost anywhere with bright light and a well-draining pot.
Aloe wants bright light — a south- or west-facing window is ideal — and a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix in a pot with a drainage hole. Water deeply, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again; overwatering, not underwatering, is what kills most aloe plants. Outdoors, it's hardy in warm, dry climates (roughly zones 9–11) but must come inside before frost anywhere colder.
Aloe vera's gel is one of the most widely used home remedies for minor burns, sunburn, and skin irritation, applied fresh straight from a broken leaf or from store-bought gel. It's also a common ingredient in lotions, cosmetics, and after-sun products for its cooling, moisturizing properties.
