it takes 5 years before one aloe plant can produce leaves that are suitable for use. i have them growing in my yard and they are still too small not like the big ones i can buy at winn dixie or publix here in south fl. best places to grow them is arizona and new mexico ca. etc. you can grow them inside but you need lots of light good dry sandy soil and time. next best thing to do is look online, you can order the leaves online from the jamican in fl as seen on you tube.