Aloe Vera
Aloe vera
Common Names: Aloe Vera, True Aloe, Barbados Aloe
Local Name: கற்றாழை (Tamil), Ghritkumari (Hindi)
Family: Asphodelaceae
Origin: Arabian Peninsula; cultivated worldwide
Plant Type: Perennial succulent
Average Lifespan: Perennial; 5–25 years
🌿 Botanical Description
| Growth Habit | Stemless or short-stemmed succulent; rosette-forming |
| Plant Size | 60–100 cm tall |
| Leaves | Thick, fleshy, lanceolate; grey-green with serrated margins; gel-filled interior |
| Flowers | Tubular, yellow to orange; on tall erect spikes |
| Root System | Shallow, fibrous root system; spreads laterally |
☀ Growing Conditions
| Climate | Tropical to subtropical; tolerates arid conditions |
| Temperature Range | 13–40°C |
| Soil Type | Well-drained sandy or loamy soil; does not tolerate waterlogging |
| Soil pH Preference | 7.0–8.5 |
| Sun Requirement | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water Requirement | Very low; drought-tolerant; water sparingly |
| Can it Grow in Pots? | Yes, excellent container plant |
🌾 Cultivation & Care
| Fertilizer Schedule | Minimal; occasional diluted liquid fertilizer in growing season |
| Common Pests | Root rot from overwatering; mealybugs and scale insects occasionally |
🌱 Pollination & Propagation
| Propagation by Cuttings | Offsets (pups) from base of plant; allow cut end to dry before planting |
💧 Environmental Impact & Sustainability
| Water Usage | Very low; stores water in leaves; ideal for water-scarce regions |
| Biodiversity Benefits | Flowers attract sunbirds and bees; low-maintenance ground cover |
🌿 Medicinal Uses
| Anti-inflammatory Properties | Gel used for burns, wounds, sunburn, and skin conditions; anti-inflammatory and soothing |
| Digestive Health | Juice used for digestive health, constipation, and gut health; widely used in Ayurveda |
| Immune Support | Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants; widely used in cosmetics and nutraceuticals |
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice.
📝 Orchard Observation Notes
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