Aloe : Decorative and medicinal species
Aloe holds a special place among succulents favored by home growers. This large plant group has decorative and medicinal types. Decorative aloes beautify homes and offices. Medicinal aloes have useful traits and help treat diseases.
Taking care of aloe is easy. Learning about the plant and how to grow it helps a lot.
There are over 500 aloe types known today. Many come from Africa, the Mediterranean, and Arabia. Aloe leaves are key. Here are some leaf traits:
They are thick and shaped like swords. Leaves grow in spirals, making dense bunches. Many types have long leaves. Edges can be smooth or have teeth. Some have sharp spines or soft hairs. Cells inside hold much liquid. Pores close to curb water loss when it is dry.
Aloe may drop lower leaves if it lacks water. Aloe flowers are tube-shaped and small. They come in colors like yellow, orange, or red. Aloe can live through harsh times. It handles heat and dry weather well. Its bitter taste keeps animals from eating it.
