Soap aloe is a tough, Florida-Friendly plant that can be grown throughout the state, adding a bold touch to any garden. Its name is derived from the fact that the sap from its thick, fleshy leaves can be used as a soap substitute.

Soap aloe blooms throughout the warm months of the year with hummingbird-attracting flowers in red, orange, or yellow.

Individual plants can reach one to two feet across. They’ll also spread by putting out new plants called pups, making soap aloe an effective groundcover plant.

The edges of the leaves have sharp spines, so keep this in mind when you choose the right spot for planting.

Plant soap aloe in full sun or partial shade in a well-drained soil. Once established, it’ll be highly drought tolerant.

Sold at Nassau County Master Gardener Plant Sale