Aloe Vera has become incredibly popular as an indoor decorative plant. Aloe Vera, which is usually compact and beautifully manicured, has a new variant making waves among gardeners – “Leggy Aloe Vera“. This unique type of Aloe Vera has elongated and sprawling growth, which sets it apart from other aloe plants. We explore the interesting characteristics, caring tips and benefits of this leggy type of aloe.

Discovering Leggy Aloe Veras: Leggy Aloe Vera plants have long stems that give them a distinct look compared to other varieties of aloe Vera which are compact. The stems will cascade inwards creating an elegant look for any outdoor or indoor setting. They are succulent and still have their well-known properties of retaining water, making aloe vera an ideal plant for health and skincare.

Understand the Growth Pattern: This leggy pattern is usually caused by low lighting conditions, or by inadequate space between plants. As the stems of the plants elongate to try and reach more light, they develop the characteristic leggy appearance. Although this is not the growth pattern that many gardeners prefer, you can use it to create attractive hanging baskets or plant arrangements.

How to Care for Leggy Aloe Vera. Taking care of the leggy Aloe Vera plant requires attention both to their growth pattern as well as general needs. Here are some care guidelines:

Light It is important to have adequate sunlight in order to stop excessive lengthening. Put your leggy Aloe Vera near a bright indirect light source.

Prune: A regular pruning will help to manage the leggy development. Trim long stems for a compacter growth. You can also propagate the cuttings by growing new plants.

Watering As with all Aloe Vera varieties, the leggy types prefer a well-drained soil. You should water them infrequently but deeply. Let the soil dry completely between waterings.

Allowing for air circulation: Make sure to leave enough room between the aloe plants you are growing.

Fertilization Feed a leggy aloe plant with a balanced fertilizer diluted during growing season for healthier growth.

Leggy Aloe Vera’s Benefits: Leggy Aloe Vera offers the same benefits of their compacted counterparts, despite their unusual appearance. Its gel, found in the leaves, is well-known for its soothing effects, making it an excellent natural treatment for burns, minor wounds, and skin irritations. The aloe gel is also believed to clean indoor air, by filtering out toxic substances. This makes it an excellent addition for any indoor space.