Aloe vera - Aloe vera (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Toxic)

Aloe vera

Also known as: Chinese aloe, Wand of heaven, Burn aloe

Aloe vera is an evergreen succulent species native to the Arabian Peninsula. The thick leaves are filled with gooey flesh that stores water for survival in its native desert territories. Aloe vera has become a popular houseplant and is also incorporated into a wide range of cosmetics and skin-care products.

Scientific classification

Species

Aloe vera (Aloe vera)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

20 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

20 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver, Blue

Leaf Color

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Orange, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Aloe vera

Distribution of Aloe vera

Distribution Map

Aloe vera is thought to originate from the Arabian Peninsula, with a wild native population known today only in Oman. It naturally grows in arid, sandy conditions. Aloe vera is cultivated throughout the world, and has escaped to grow wild in many countries in tropical and subtropical regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Maritime sands, rocks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Beauty Improvement Value

Aloe vera can be used directly for beauty treatment. It can tighten, soften, and moisturize skin and diminish inflammation.

Garden Use

Aloe vera is an iconic piece found in rock and succulent gardens all over the world. Its interesting shape and verdant color have won this plant an Award of Garden Merit, which has only made it even more popular. Aloe vera is typically grown near other low-water plants, such as cacti or other succulents, or in pots as a standalone. It works great as a specimen plant in a rock garden or in containers.

Symbolism

Purity, healing, self-love, immortality

Interesting Facts

When you hear of Aloe vera, you think of gel, facial masks and maybe even aloe yogurt. It is widely used in our daily lives. However, never eat it raw, since it contains aloin, which can cause diarrhea. According to legend, Aloe vera won the favor of Alexander the Great on one of his expeditions for its edible and anti-inflammatory properties. Alexander the Great sustained his soldiers by growing Aloe vera, which was then widely cultivated.

Name Story

Aloe vera: Its Latin name, aloe vera, is most commonly used, where aloe stems from the word "alloeh" in Arabic, meaning shining and bitter, just like its pulp. It tastes bitter even with its crystal-clear appearance.

True aloe: When people hear the name "true aloe", they all raise the same question. Is there a fake aloe? The "true" in true aloe is not used to identify the authenticity of aloe. Instead, it is derived from its scientific nomenclature where its species epithet, Vera, means "true" or "genuine".

Barbados aloe||Chinese aloe||Mediterranean aloe: When you realize that Aloe vera is being called differently based on different geographical locations, you might wonder about the plant's origin. In fact, it did not originate from Barbados, China, or even the Mediterranean. It actually originated from the Arabian Peninsula, but nobody calls it Arabian aloe.

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Toxicity

Aloe vera, containing aloin, can cause digestive upset and liver damage in humans when ingested. Toxic to cats and mildly toxic to dogs, it may cause vomiting, lethargy, and depression. Skin contact with aloe vera may irritate sensitive individuals. Keep away from children and cognitively impaired people; veterinary care is advised for affected pets.

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Quickly Identify Aloe vera

Rosettes of gray-green, fleshy leaves, 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long.

Yellow flowers on 3-5 foot tall (0.9-1.5 m) panicles.

Red or yellow-orange flowers in 3-foot (90 cm) spikes.

Triangular, pointed leaves with white spots, 18 inches (45 cm) long.

Short, stout green stem with fleshy leaves in a rosette.

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Care Guide for Aloe vera

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, aloe vera exhibits high drought tolerance and requires minimal watering, typically once every three weeks. Its thick leaves efficiently store water, making it suitable for indoor cultivation in well-draining soil that mimics its desert habitat.

Fertilize: Fertilize aloe vera sparingly with succulent-specific feed every 6-8 weeks during spring-summer, using quarter strength for delicate roots. Cease feeding in cooler seasons to prevent over-fertilization. Precise measurements are crucial to avoid nutrient burn and ensure a robust specimen.

Pruning: Aloe vera requires minimal pruning, limited to removing spent flower stalks and dead or discolored leaves. Trim orange or brown leaves to enhance nutrient delivery to healthy parts. Use a knife for smaller plants and pruning shears for larger ones.

Propagation: Propagating aloe vera involves a simple cutting technique. Sever a healthy leaf near the stem and let it callous. Place the cutting in well-draining soil with consistent moisture and warmth. Avoid overwatering to prevent decay, and be patient as roots develop over time.

Repotting: Repot aloe vera every 2 years when root-bound to keep its rosette shape. Spring is ideal for repotting to enhance growth. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage, water minimally post-repotting, and provide bright, indirect sunlight for recovery.

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