You can prune the top to encourage branching, but it will not make the existing stem thicker. Use clean shears to make a clean cut.

Is it supposed to climb?

Yes, it is a climbing aloe. It naturally wants to grow upward and will benefit from a support structure as it matures.

Climbing Aloe: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe how many hours of direct light the plant gets.
Rotate the pot every week to ensure even growth.
Check if the plant is leaning toward a light source.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The distance between leaves increases, and the stem looks thin and pale. The plant leans heavily toward the nearest window.
What to do: Move the plant to a brighter location with more direct or bright indirect light. If you cannot provide enough natural light, consider a grow light for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Natural growth habit
Possible
How to tell: The plant is growing tall but the leaves remain thick and green. It is simply behaving like a climber.
What to do: Provide a small trellis or stake to support the stem as it grows. This keeps it tidy and prevents it from toppling over.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your climbing aloe

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for this species to grow long stems, but it is a problem if the stem becomes so thin that it cannot support itself. If the plant is healthy otherwise, it is just doing its job.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a bright spot where it receives at least 6 hours of indirect light daily.

Climbing Aloe: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your climbing aloe and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I prune it?: You can prune the top to encourage branching, but it will not make the existing stem thicker. Use clean shears to make a clean cut.
Is it supposed to climb?: Yes, it is a climbing aloe. It naturally wants to grow upward and will benefit from a support structure as it matures.

Why is my Climbing Aloe growing so tall and thin?