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Aloe

Scientific Name
Aloe vera
Family 
Asphodelaceae
Status
Non-native (naturalized)
​

Botanical Description

Aloe vera, commonly known simply as Aloe, is a succulent perennial plant that forms a dense rosette of thick fleshy leaves. It typically grows 1–3 feet (30–90 cm) tall and spreads by producing offsets.

Growth Form
  • Basal rosette
  • Clump-forming through offsets
  • Stemless or with very short stem
  • Slow to moderate growth
Leaves
  • Thick, fleshy, and water-storing
  • Lance-shaped
  • Gray-green to green
  • 8–20 inches long
  • Margins lined with small soft teeth
  • Filled with clear gel inside
Flowers
  • Tubular
  • Yellow to orange
  • Produced on tall upright stalks
  • Bloom mainly on mature plants
Roots
  • Fibrous root system
  • Adapted to dry soils

Habitat

Aloe vera grows in Human-altered envirnoment (gardens and yards). 

Distribution 

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, but naturalized worldwide in the tropical and subtropical regions.

Ecological Importance

  • Flowers may attract pollinators

  • Primarily cultivated for household use

  • Limited ecological role locally

Cultural Notes

  • Widely used in Bahamian home remedies

  • Gel applied to burns, skin irritation, and minor wounds

  • Common household medicinal plant

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