Aloe Vera

Aloe vera plants (Aloe vera or Aloe barbadensis) are originally native to arid parts o f northern Africa. They do best in warm, sandy environments and must be grown indoors in much of the United States. Aloe vera can be planted outside in United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 11, but must be protected when temperatures drop below freezing for more than a few hours, especially in wet climates. This species grows best in well-drained soils similar to those of its native environment.