Native to the mountainous areas of South Africa, Aloe brevifolia inhabits rocky slopes with basaltic substrates. It is a clumping, polycarpic species. It is notable within the genus for its short, thick leaves featuring regularly toothed margins, significantly shorter than most Aloe species. Leaves thick, ovate-lanceolate, 5-8 cm long, arranged in a dense rosette. Margins bear sharp white teeth; surface is gray-green with reddish-brown tips during summer.
Full sun exposure with partial shade during peak heat. Watering reduced from October to March, increased during active growth. Substrate must contain at least 70% well-draining mineral components. Minimum temperature 5 °C. Prolonged waterlogging causes root rot.