Aloe barbadensis var. 'Crosby’s Prolific'

Common Names: Crosby’s Prolific Aloe, Dwarf Aloe Vera, Prolific Aloe

Appearance

A compact, clumping aloe with thick, fleshy, green to reddish-orange leaves that develop deeper hues in bright sunlight.

Leaves are edged with small, white teeth and grow in a rosette formation.

Typically grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and spreads through numerous offsets.

Care & Growing Conditions

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade; more sunlight enhances the reddish coloration.

Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or cactus mix soil.

Watering: Drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.

Temperature: Thrives in USDA zones 9-11; should be kept above 30°F (-1°C) and protected from frost.

Humidity: Prefers dry conditions and does not tolerate excessive moisture.

Flower

Produces tall flower spikes with tubular, bright orange-red flowers in late winter to early spring.

Flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators.

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested; can cause gastrointestinal upset. Safe for humans when used externally for skin care.

Special Notes

Medicinal History: Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, especially by ancient Egyptians, who valued it for its healing properties. Cleopatra even reportedly used Aloe vera as part of her beauty regimen.

Longevity: Aloe vera plants can live for many years when cared for properly, with some plants surviving for decades.

Low Maintenance: Aloe vera is an excellent plant for beginners because it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. It’s perfect for busy individuals who want a beautiful and functional plant with minimal care.