Aloe

Aloe Vera is a commonly grown as a houseplant, is known for its leaves which contain a soothing gel used on sunburns and other skin irritations. With over 300 species, this tropical succulent features fleshy lance-shape leaves with jagged edges that grow out from a basal rosette. Given the right growing conditions, spiky flowers will appear on the end of stalks in shades of yellow, red, or orange.

Still, this fast-growing succulent will reach its mature size in three to four years and produces pups that can be repotted or given as gifts to other plant lovers. No green thumb is required.

Aloe Vera needs bright, natural light in order to thrive. Outdoors, aim for up to six hours of full sun, with a small shade reprieve in the afternoon. When grown inside, aloe should be placed in a window with bright, indirect sunlight.

Aloe prefers to be watered regularly, as long as the soil dries out completely in between waterings. If the soil remains dry for long periods of time, the leaves will shrivel and pucker slightly. The plant will recover when watered, however, extended periods of stress—either prolonged drought or too much water—will make the leaves turn yellow and die. Do not water outdoor plants during periods of rain.

Aloe vera goes dormant in the winter and won’t require any water at all, provided it received sufficient water during its growing season.