Medicinal Aloe (Aloe vera)

Medicinal Aloe
Scientific Name: Aloe vera (L.)Burm.f.
Synonym: Aloe barbadensis, Aloe chinensis, Aloe elongata, Aloe flava, Aloe lanzae, Aloe perfoliata var. barbadensis, Aloe perfoliata var. vera, Aloe vera var. chinensis, Aloe vera var. littoralis, Aloe vera var. wratislaviensis, Aloe barbadensis var. chinensis, Aloe indica, Aloe vera var. lanzae, Aloe vulgaris
Family: Asphodelaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 8,9,11-27
USDA: 9-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 23°F (-5°C)
Minimum Avg. Temperature: 50°F (10°C)
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Cape Verde Islands, Canary Islands
Growth Habits: Clumping rosettes, each about 8 inches in diameter (20 cm).
Watering Needs: Drought resistant, but use moderate to regular water if you plan to use the plant for its gel.
Propagation: Offsets

The moist gel inside the Medicinal Aloe leaves is used to treat burns, including sunburns. Skin inflammation can occur in sensitive individuals. The gel is mildly toxic if ingested.
Several varieties of Aloe vera are available. The real Aloe vera has yellow flowers, and juvenile specimens have narrower leaves with lighter spots, while mature specimens have wider solid green leaves. Some of the Aloe vera sold retain the juvenile characteristics.

Cultural Practices:
Tolerates poor soil and drought, but requires excellent drainage. The offsets tend to become crowded, and some should be removed from time to time.

Blooming Habits:
The real Aloe vera has yellow flowers, but many of the clones available have orange flowers.

References:
The Succulent Garden : A Practical Gardening Guide
Dry Climate Gardening With Succulents : The Huntington Botanical Gardens

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