Aloe

Native to sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and Arabia, Aloes are evergreen succulents with usually spiny leaves arranged in neat rosettes and spectacular, candle-like inflorescences bearing clusters of brilliant yellow, orange or red tubular flowers. They exist in a wide range of sizes, colors and offer an amazing array of leaf shapes. Some make incredible landscape specimens, creating year-round interest. Smaller varieties are ideal for adding drama, texture, and color to containers. Easy care, waterwise, they brighten up the dull winter landscape and are fascinating.

What is Aloe?

Aloe is a genus of about 450 species of succulent plants belonging to the Asphodelaceae family.

Description: Aloes range from small miniatures, a few inches high, to tall trees. Their usually thick leaves are lance-shaped, smooth, bumpy or prickled and are lined along their edges with usually sharp, but sometimes soft, teeth. The leaves of many Aloes redden when the plants are stressed by drought, cold, or more sun or less rich soil that it requires.

Flowers: Unlike most Agaves which die after blooming, Aloes flower every year in candle-like or cone-shaped inflorescences, usually packed with tubular flowers that are brightly colored in shades of red, orange, and yellow and occasionally cream, green, pink, or white. Most Aloes flower in winter, while some groups, like the grass aloes, usually flower in spring or summer.

Lifespan: Aloes are mostly long-lived plants, especially larger species. Some exceptionally tall specimens of Aloe marlothii are said to be over 200 years old!

Hardiness: Most aloes are considered to be hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means they can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). However, the specific hardiness of an aloe plant can vary depending on the species and cultivar. Some aloes are quite cold-hardy.

Uses: Aloes are terrific for beds and borders, rock gardens, succulent gardens or Mediterranean gardens. They are ideal as accent plants and highly decorative in containers. Large Aloes are spectacular landscape plants. They can create a stunning focal point or a striking backdrop. Combine them with smaller Aloe species in the foreground and add some of their favorite companion plants, such as low succulent groundcovers (Senecio mandraliscae) and sedums. Complement with Agaves and Opuntia cacti to add texture and a sculptural presence to the Mediterranean or drought-tolerant gardens. Their natural adaptation to harsh and often arid climates makes Aloes superb subjects for the water-wise garden.

Pollinators: Filled with nectar, the brightly colored flowers of Aloes are regularly visited by pollinating birds and insects and a welcome food source during the winter.

Deer and Rabbit: Their sharp thorns and spines, as well as usually bitter leaf sap, are good deterrents for many herbivores, including deer and rabbits.

Toxicity: Some species of Aloe plants can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The sap or gel found in the leaves of certain Aloe species may cause irritation, gastrointestinal discomfort, or allergic reactions. It is important to handle Aloe plants cautiously and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Endangered: All species of Aloe (except for Aloe vera) appear in the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, meaning that trade in aloe is controlled to prevent utilization that would be incompatible with their survival.

Why Should I Grow Aloe?

Growing aloe plants, specifically Aloe Vera, can have multiple benefits:

Ease of Growing: Aloe is a succulent, and like most succulents, it’s hardy and requires little water or attention, which makes it easy to grow for gardeners of all experience levels.

Medicinal Uses: Aloe Vera is well-known for its medicinal properties. The gel inside the leaves can be used topically to soothe burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.

Indoor Air Purification: According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, Aloe Vera is effective at improving indoor air quality by removing benzene and formaldehyde from the air.

Drought Tolerance: Aloe plants are incredibly water-efficient and can survive in dry conditions, making them excellent for xeriscaping or for growing in regions with water restrictions.

Ornamental Value: With its distinct rosette of fleshy, pointed leaves and periodic stalk of yellow or orange flowers, aloe can be an attractive addition to a succulent dish garden or a desert-themed landscape.

Edible and Nutritional: Some Aloe species have edible parts and are used in drinks and as fresh food. It’s a good source of vitamins and can have potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Attracts Pollinators: When Aloe plants bloom, they attract hummingbirds and bees, thus supporting local biodiversity.

Remember, while aloe has many benefits, the plant can be toxic to pets if ingested, so it’s essential to consider this if you have pets that may try to eat your plants. Always consult a healthcare professional before using aloe or any other plant for medicinal purposes.