Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/23/2006

Question
I have two aloe plants and they both seem to have a tendency to dry up.  It seems to occur on the lower leaves.  In one plant, it tends to happen in the ceter of the leaf, and in the other it happens at the edges.  Also, the bottom leaves have fallen off on some occasions.  I'm wondering, is this the natural tendency of the plant, or am I doing something wrong?  Also, now that they've gotten larger they tend to fall to one side... it doesnt seem like the root is strong enough to hold it upright.  Again, is this the nature of the plant, or am I doing something wrong?  I've put  garden rocks at the base of the plants to give them support/something to lean on.  They look uncomfortable! = )

Answer
Dear Dana,

Sounds like you have an Aloe Vera, which is a "trailing type" of Aloe. In other words, the stem lays on the ground as they grow. A true tree Aloe, Like Aloe Dichotoma can get 30 feet tall with a trunk couple of feet in diameter. As far as your leaves go, that's pretty normal. My Aloes all drop their leaves in that way, so I don't think you have anything to worry about. Sounds to me like you have a normal Aloe Vera. Good Luck!

Sincerely,

Greg