Aloe vera x

Aloe vera x

Family: Asphodelaceae
Family Synonyms: Liliaceae
Botanical Synonyms: Aloe barbadensis x
Common Names: Aloe vera, bitter aloe
Geographic Origin: Although the second parent of this hybrid is unknown, the dominant appearance derives from Aloe vera, and the species requires similar care. Aloe vera is believed to have originated from Africa, but is currently cultivated throughout the warmer regions of the world, especially in South America, in various climates and elevations.
Description: Aloe vera is a perennial, short-stemmed or stemless succulent that forms clusters of glaucous rosettes up to 3.3 feet tall. Each rosette consists of spear-shaped, thick, glaucous leaves with serrated margins. Hybrids usually possess the traits of the dominant parent plant, but may be flushed gray, pink, or pale green, with white teeth. In spring or summer, a tall spike of tubular yellow flowers will form, sparsely branching and leading to fruits with many seeds.
Interesting Features:

Each Aloe vera leaf consists of three layers including an inner clear gel, from which numerous medical products are made; a middle layer of bitter latex; and a thick outer rind.
Famous for its medical uses, Aloe vera has been considered the universal panacea by ancient Greek scientists, and “the plant of immortality” by ancient Egyptians. The genus, Aloe, derives from the Arabic “Alloeh”, for “shining bitter substance”, while “vera” derives from the Latin “Verus” for “true”.
The species is capable of releasing O2 and absorbing CO2 even within the dark, popularizing its use in bedrooms.

Uses: A. vera has been utilized for numerous medical uses, especially in the treatment of burns or other disorders of the skin. The succulent is emmenagogue, emollient, laxative, purgative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary; and possesses antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, and antiseptic qualities. At the same time, it has been used as a laxative, to treat chronic and severe radiation dermatitis, to treat soldiers’ wounds by Alexander the Great, and within a beauty regime by Cleopatra.

Cultivation and Care:
- Watering: Low

Water sparsely but deeply, allowing the soil to completely dry before irrigating again. Overwatering or siting in a pot with poor drainage often leads to death in Aloe species, and must be avoided.
Reduce watering during the winter months.

- Soil Type: At the same time, well-draining soil is necessary to prevent root rot. Site in a cactus or succulent soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.8.

Although all soil qualities are tolerated, the best growth will be observed in laterite to loamy soils.

     - Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light via a southern or southwest-facing window. Outdoor plants should be given light shade to prevent sunburn.
     - Propagation: Aloe vera does not produce viable seed, and can only be propagated through stem cuttings and offsets, which are easily produced by mature plants.
     - Cold tolerance: 20-40°F, USDA hardiness zones 9a - 11
     - Special Accommodations: A. vera is not cold hardy and should be protected from frost and low temperatures. When repotting, choose a pot that is wide rather than deep. Additionally, the species is moderately toxic to dogs and cats, and should be sited away from pets or small children.
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