The Aloe Socotrina is a perennial plant. It has fleshy basal leaves (similar to agave but considerably smaller) that are 1 to 2 feet long (30 to 61 centimeters) and green on both sides. The leaves have spiny teeth on the edges.

This plant has a purplish drooping flower for most of the year, except for when this photograph was taken. The flower can grow to 4 feet (130 centimeters) high.

The thorns along the edge of the leaves were just sharp enough to discourage herbivores from eating the leaves, but not sharp enough to hurt when touched by hand.

Fresh leaves of this plant, when split to expose the juice, can be rubbed on the skin to help remedy sunburn, insect bites, skin irritations, and minor cuts. The fresh juice is also reputed to help heal wounds by preventing or drawing out infection. It is said to help cure poison ivy. This and other Aloes are widely used for their moisturizing and softening properties.