Decorative aloe flower. Varieties of aloe: types of medicinal and decorative aloe

Studying medicine, cosmetology, botany, it is difficult not to meet with the mention of such an interesting representative of the world of flora as aloe. Its leaves, stem and juice contain a whole complex of useful substances.

Prominent physicians of antiquity wrote about him: Hippocrates, Paracelsus and Avicenna, and the famous rulers Nefertiti and Cleopatra entrusted him with the preservation of regal beauty. Where other plants succumb to adverse conditions, this champion survives. This article offers to get to know him better.

What are the types of aloe: photos, names and descriptions of indoor varieties and medicinal varieties

The name aloe - aloe in Latin spelling - came, presumably, from the Greek language, formed from the merger of the words meaning "giving" and "salt", which indicates a bitter-salty taste. Transformed into Latin, it became aloë, "bitter". It is possible that the original origin of the word is from the Arabic alloeh: "a bitter and bright substance." A similar-sounding name - Akhal - is found in the Bible, which suggests the presence of linguistic roots in Hebrew.

The genus Aloe belongs to the family Liliaceae(Lily), according to the rules of traditional taxonomy, previously being isolated in the family of the same name. With the advent of the APG classification system, the plant began to be classified as Asphodelaceae (Asphodelaceae). The genera Gasteria, Havortia and Kniphofia have the same method of growth and are his closest relatives.

Often a succulent is confused with a cactus, which is not surprising if you remember where its homeland is: Africa, Madagascar, Arabian Peninsula. Various types of aloe are so widely cultivated throughout the world that it is impossible to single out the natural area of ​​\u200b\u200bits distribution.

Aloe is a valuable plant. Its raw materials are rich in polysaccharides, allantoin, flavonoids, prostaglandins, phenol compounds, essential oils, choline, thiamine, cyanocobalamin, carotenes, ascorbic acid, potassium, zinc, copper, magnesium and other useful substances that determine its medicinal properties.

The Plant List, a collaboration between Kew, the Royal Botanic Gardens in the UK, and the Missouri Botanic Gardens, has 558 species of aloes, all of which are named on the project's lists.

The photo shows which are the most widely known:

However, few representatives of plant species have medicinal properties. Only varieties of aloe derived from the species described below are classified as medicinal.

Aloe vera, it is real, rightfully takes the first place. It is used in gastroenterology for the treatment of gastritis, enterocolitis, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum; ophthalmology for the complex therapy of keratitis, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, in cases of vitreous opacity; medical cosmetology for sensitive and problematic skin; in folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent for mucous membranes and wound healing.

It grows in the southern half of the Arabian Peninsula, in Morocco, Mauritania, Egypt, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, on the island of Madeira.

Its varieties, depending on the origin, differ in the color of the leaves (may be blue or green). In addition, a separate variety is often distinguished Aloe chinensis , the leaves of which are covered with white rounded spots.

Aloe tree, known as the agave, was well studied in the middle of the twentieth century. Its leaves and condensed juice (the so-called sabur) are used to make laxatives, choleretic, anti-burn agents, they improve appetite, the secretion of digestive glands.

Common in South Africa: Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Swaziland.

Its subspecies, known as Aloe arborescens var. natalensis , has been tested in the laboratory since the 1980s, showing fungicidal activity and the ability to suppress the reproduction of staphylococcus, streptococcus, diphtheria and dysentery bacilli.

These types of aloe have largely replaced its Socotrin variety, which came from the island of the same name in Yemen, but it has not lost its local significance.

The plant in the photo is an indoor variety of an aloe flower:

Of course, regardless of what types of aloe are, they all have something in common in appearance. This is a typical succulent plant with thick, elongated leaves, most often arranged in a rosette. Succulents are species that have special tissues to retain the moisture they need to sustain life in dry and hot climates. Under extreme conditions, the plant will simply close the pores on the leaves so as not to lose a single drop of precious fluid.

Flowers in different types of aloe can be yellow, white, red or orange, but will always be tubular, located on a long peduncle. Alexander Kuprin in one of his works gives a very vivid description of the aloe flower: “On the high green rod of the Agave, lush clusters of snow-white flowers of unprecedented beauty bloomed, which emitted a wonderful, indescribable aroma that immediately filled the entire greenhouse.”

In all types of aloe, only adult plants bloom, and, in combination with developed leaves, which Vasily Botkin compared with protruding daggers, the spectacle is charming.

But not all types of aloe plant look the same. The appearance of the flower, the color and arrangement of the leaves are those diagnostic features that allow you to distinguish between different types of aloe and isolate individual varieties from them.

For example, at Aloe variegata (tiger aloe) light transverse stripes are “drawn” on the leaves, and the leaves themselves are located one above the other in a dense spiral, but in the Descoigne variety, the shades of the spots are gray, and in the pearl they look like light growths.

The already mentioned agave is more like a tree, for which it got its second name, in soapy - the leaves are covered with a mosaic of pale spots, the ferox has a reddish tint, and the variegated one looks like an exotic emerald marble.

Here are photos and names of indoor aloe species:

Aloe real, variegated and treelike take root best of all as a home plant: caring for them is the easiest.

For decorative purposes, breeders breed hybrid varieties of aloe. The most popular of them:

Black Gem - rosette plant of miniature plants, under long exposure to sunlight changes the bright green color of the leaves to red.

Donnie - has variegated dark green foliage with a pink edging edge.

snowflake - leaves are almost completely white, with green shading.

blue elf - derived from aloe squat, with gray-blue leaves and orange flowers.

pink blush - differs in reddish-pink edging and shading on the leaves.

christmas carol - known for its bright red thorns on green leaves.

The presented photos show varieties of aloe in all their diversity:

How to properly care for an aloe flower (with photo)

An alternative to a prickly cactus can become a pleasant ward for the owner, but how to properly care for an aloe flower?

Endurance and unpretentiousness are the main qualities due to which aloe does not need specific growing conditions. A native of Africa is not spoiled by air humidity: it tolerates dry air, even in apartments with central heating.

For the same reason, it does not require abundant watering: maintain moderate soil moisture; water less in winter.

Important! Avoid stagnant waterlogging, it leads to damage to the root system, which will not become noticeable until the rot rises up the stem to the leaves, and it will be difficult to save the plant.

Growing aloe at home requires choosing a suitable location: sunny, in summer it is best to place it outdoors in a sheltered place. Despite its southern origin, being a domestic flower, aloe will not approve of too high a temperature: indoor, coolness is needed in winter. Optimal conditions are 18-20 ° C, then the plant will develop rapidly.

In different countries, especially in the wild, each of the aloe species grows in soil that is slightly different in composition, but, regardless of the variety, an alternative substrate is suitable for all of them: a flower soil mixture with 1/3 sand.

When preparing the soil yourself, you need to take into account that in nature the plant takes root on dry, clay soils with a high iron content and good aeration. Botanists speak well of a mixture of sod, leafy soil, humus and coarse sand.

Sections of soddy land are made on fertile plains (soil layer 7-10 cm thick), carefully controlling the absence of unrotted inclusions of organic origin. Leafy soil is used as a baking powder. Only rotted leaves are allowed in it: tougher and harder elements are removed. River sand is well washed before being added to the soil mixture.

Care for growing aloe at home: feeding and transplanting from pot to pot (with video)

Caring for the plant at home, the florist provides him with top dressing: in the summer, every 3 weeks he applies fertilizer for cacti. In nature, the renewal of the organic and mineral composition of the soil is provided by rains, the influence of wind, the vital activity of birds and animals, at home you will have to do it yourself.

Sooner or later, the flower will need a transplant: adult plants, if necessary, transplant, on average once every 2-3 years, young plants - once a year. An aloe transplant is required when the flower begins to grow out of its pot, so they transfer it to a pot one-fifth larger than the previous one.

The best time for such events is called spring and summer, when the plant will receive enough natural light, and the optimal room temperature for it is maintained naturally.

When transplanting a plant, its roots can be treated with charcoal: it is a natural antiseptic and will prevent the death of a flower if the root system is accidentally damaged or infected. Pour a layer of sand or perlite about 5 cm thick on the surface of the substrate - this way the lower part of the stem will not rot.

You can watch the process of caring for aloe at home in the video below:

Planting and caring for an aloe plant at home: a method of propagation by seeds

Aloe growers and carers identify three main methods of propagation: side shoots, shoot cuttings, or seeds; they are all applicable at home.

Growing from seed- the most time-consuming and painstaking way of propagating aloe, but with its help you can get a real collection of indoor aloe species, because many stores sell mixtures of different seeds. Sowing is carried out in the spring, in March-April, using small bowls and soil consisting of turf, leafy soil and sand in a ratio of 2: 1: 2. Water moderately as the seedlings dry out, after which the seedlings are transferred one at a time into small pots.

The soil in them consists of turf and leaf soil and sand in a ratio of 2:2:1, with the addition of charcoal or brick chips. A year later, the plant is considered an adult.

It is recommended to treat aloe seeds before planting in order to quickly adapt to home conditions and better perceive care. This can be done in three ways: using potassium permanganate, copper sulfate or boric acid, aloe juice as a biostimulant.

A solution of potassium permanganate for disinfecting seeds should be weak, pinkish in color. It will protect the growth from pathogenic bacteria. You can add a little solution to the substrate for the same purpose, but being guided by a sense of proportion, since potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent and can burn the seeds if the concentration is exceeded.

Undiluted aloe juice acts as a nourishing cocktail for the seeds. It is mixed with beet or tomato juice, left for a day, after which a gauze bag with seeds is placed in this mixture. In a couple of hours they will be ready to land.

Propagation of an aloe flower to cuttings, top and leaf at home

Propagation of aloe cuttings is faster and easier, this is one of the most popular methods.

It can be used year-round, but it is preferable to transplant aloe cuttings in the spring and summer, when it is easiest to provide light and warmth to the young at home. Cut shoots need to be dried for one or two days, then powdered with crushed coal. It will take away the residual excess moisture and disinfect the cut site. After that, the first landing is carried out - in wet sand to a depth of 1 cm.

After landing, the level of humidity is maintained in the sand: it should not dry out, but it should not be flooded either. At the same time, the plant does not need to be covered, because it needs a constant flow of fresh air. By the seventh day, when the roots are formed, the seedling is transferred to a pot where it will mature.

To propagate aloe with the tip, it is carefully cut off from the plant and placed in a vessel filled with water. Transplanted when the process forms several roots.

For the last of the aloe propagation methods - a leaf - the grower will have to carry out a small amputation at home. The leaf is completely separated from the stem near the base and harvested in the shade until it dries. After that, the cut point is treated with charcoal and placed in a pot with a substrate to a depth of at least 3 cm - it is optimal for the early start of the rooting process.

Thus, planting and caring for aloe shoots is very simple, even in a home greenhouse. Regardless of the method of reproduction and the variety of the flower, aloe does not impose high demands on the owner.

The optimal composition of the soil, light, coolness and a balanced amount of moisture - that's all the prickly doctor needs to turn green and delight the gardener's eye.

Why do the leaves of the indoor aloe flower turn yellow and dry

In the photo - a healthy flower of indoor aloe:

However, despite all efforts, it happens that the pet begins to wither away. We will analyze the reasons for possible difficulties.

It was mentioned above that for optimal development it is necessary to periodically feed with fertilizer for cacti.

Excessive depletion of the substrate will inevitably affect the plant: most often it is the answer to the question of why aloe leaves turn yellow.

Top dressing is not carried out if the plant was transplanted less than three weeks ago. During the period of prolonged rains, cool and cloudy weather, plants slow down their metabolism, so fertilizing should be cut. The composition of mineral fertilizers with a high content of potassium, calcium and phosphorus, which are the most important trace elements for the health of succulents, is considered optimal.

If the grower misses the time for transplanting, the root system becomes cramped in the pot, the development of the plant stops, the supply of nutrients in the substrate is depleted. The flower begins to “lose weight”, that is, to draw the necessary resource from its own external organs - this is why the tips of the leaves dry in aloe.

In this case, you need to carry out a transplant outside the schedule. Do not water the plant for several days for easier removal from the pot. If the roots grow to the sides, the new pot should be wider. If the root system went deep, you can take a pot of smaller diameter, but high. In a new container, the plant should be free and spacious.

Another reason why aloe dries is not enough watering. The succulent spends moisture without getting the necessary amount to maintain the supply of fluid in the tissues, and the leaves begin to thin.

Why does aloe still turn yellow if the soil is sufficiently fertilized and aerated?

As you know, a healthy green shade of foliage in plants is due to the presence of chlorophyll, a pigment with which the process of photosynthesis is carried out. With its help, the flower feeds, develops - simply put, lives.

Photosynthesis occurs only when there is sufficient light for a given species: if the plant is too shaded, the metabolism is disturbed, the first symptom of which is a pathological change in leaf color. It is required to rearrange the flower pot to a more sunny place, and over time the pigmentation will be restored.

In addition, being in an unfortunate place with limited access to light, the plant begins to reach for its source, which is another reason why aloe leaves and stems dry and weaken.

The color of the spots will help the grower to make a correct diagnosis. Brown spots indicate a lack of moisture, as well as a change in leaf elasticity. If the spots are soft and dark - most likely, the flower was struck by a fungal infection, you need to treat the leaves with an antiseptic.

If the leaves wither, turn pale and look sickly, there is too much water in the ground. The watering regime must be changed as soon as possible, until the roots of the plant begin to rot. If the plant begins to turn yellow in the stem, stops growing and collapses on its side, it has already become ill with root rot. In this case, you need to get the plant out of the pot, inspect and remove all flabby and rotten roots, cut them off.

Throw away the soil from the pot, wash and disinfect it. A mixture of peat and sand is poured into the pot, where a flower is planted for re-rooting. Water sparingly, using a pallet, wetting only the bottom layer of soil. The next watering is not carried out until the soil is completely dry.

The amount of moisture is directly proportional to the temperature of the flower content and the amount of sunlight.

If the rot has hit the stem, the bottom of the flower is completely cut off until healthy tissue remains. The place of the cut is sprinkled with crushed coal, dries for 1-2 days, processed by Kornevin and planted as described above.

If small black dots are found on the leaves, the plant is affected by thrips, and the dots are traces of their excrement. The diseased flower is isolated and treated with aktara according to the instructions. Repeat 4 times with breaks of 7-10 days. All houseplants are prophylactic.

In the case when the green leaves began to dry quickly, this means that the flower fell ill with dry rot. She is incurable. For prevention, the entire home collection is periodically treated with systemic fungicides.

The use of houseplant aloe (with photo)

Despite its healing properties, it is recommended to take aloe juice inside only as directed by a doctor and under his control. Nevertheless, in gratitude for the care, the aloe flower will give you a small beauty salon at home.

Allantoin restores the structure of cells, prevents the depletion of moisture in the skin, as a result of which it looks supple and radiant. In addition, aloe stimulates the formation of collagen, which, when applied topically, gives a natural lifting effect without the development of addiction.

The use of juice is also useful for problematic skin: it has an antiseptic, anti-allergic, regenerating effect, and is able to deeply cleanse clogged pores. Unlike alcohol-based products, aloe does not dry out the skin, guaranteeing the absence of hypercompensation of the sebaceous glands, in addition, it eliminates the feeling of irritation, tightness, itching and redness.

Aloe juice can be added to cleansing and toning lotions, day and night creams, make face and hair masks with it.

A home first aid kit will not do without it: any household wounds and burns will heal faster and less painfully.

He came, he saw, he conquered - this is how you can describe the path traveled by a wonderful representative of the Lileyny family from hoary antiquity and hot islands in southern Africa to the sunny window sill in the room of a modern European. Aloe attracted the attention of famous doctors, travelers and writers, its hidden possibilities are still being studied.

Aloe will become a worthy representative of the collection of any grower, needing only the most basic care. All that a friendly and unpretentious thorny tree needs is light, fertile soil and some water. In gratitude, the plant will decorate a room, a greenhouse or a winter garden with the richness of its malachite shades and generously share its beneficial properties.

In conclusion - a small gallery of photos that preserve the beauty of different types and varieties of aloe:

Experienced flower growers mainly grow this plant as a medicinal plant, but there are varieties that turn out to be decorative.

Breeders spend a lot of time developing new, unique varieties. They differ from each other in size, leaf shape and color, but nevertheless, they still attract the attention of people around them.

Thanks to its unsurpassed composition aloe is actively used in the field of cosmetology and medicine. It is grown without problems at home and is actively used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. Before using the plant, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Do all of them have medicinal properties, which ones are decorative?

What types of home succulents, shown in the photo below, are considered medicinal, that is, what kind of flower is needed for cosmetology and human treatment?

Aloe vera

This variety is often used in medicine and cosmetology. In appearance, it is similar to a shrub. The leaves are adjacent to the base of the stem, they are very dense and quite long. They reach 50 cm and have an incredibly green color with a slight haze.

On the edges of the leaves of aloe vera are soft thorns which are not dangerous at all.

With proper care for aloe vera, this plant can bloom in winter. A small arrow with a bud leaves from the very base.

The petals are shaped like tubes of yellow and orange.

We offer you to watch a video about the plant:

Agave

One of the most popular varieties of aloe can be found in every home. In the wild, such a plant can reach almost 5 meters in height.

striped

Conclusion

Aloe is an unpretentious plant that is able to accumulate moisture in the leaves. The flower can survive in almost any environment., and the medicinal properties of some species are incomparable with most plants.

Aloe is a plant of the asphodel family, which can be found in almost every apartment. The unpretentiousness of this succulent from the African and Madagascar deserts allowed it to survive in any conditions and spread throughout the world. At the moment, the types of aloe are extremely diverse - from small herbaceous plants and vines to multi-meter trees.

Aloe is not just a houseplant, but a real helper of modern medicine. Many of its species are known for their medicinal properties, which is why the succulent is predominantly grown for medicinal purposes.

However, breeding achievements have given the world a new look at aloe - as an ornamental plant - diversifying it with many new interesting shapes and colors.

You rarely see flowering aloe in an apartment, but in the wild this is a fairly common phenomenon - the plant lets out rather peculiar flowers of yellow, orange or purple hues. It is fully adapted to survive in any conditions: thorns on the leaves and a bitter taste protect from wild animals, and a light coating from the scorching sun.

Asphodelaceae are a great alternative to cacti and an ideal house pet for forgetful and busy people, as this plant can go a long time without watering.

Aloe varieties

The mix of varieties of the houseplant familiar to us has 500 positions, but only a few dozen types of aloe are popular.

The smallest aloe has dimensions of only a few tens of centimeters, and the dimensions of especially large specimens reach fifteen meters.

The main habitats of these plants are arid areas of southern and western Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, South America and Madagascar. However, the amazing hardiness of aloe allows it to grow all over the world. Consider the features of the most common types of aloe in our latitudes.

decorative types

Aloe variegated. One of the most beautiful varieties of this flower. It is a bushy plant up to 30 centimeters high with a shortened long stem and long triangular leaves. Aloe variegated has other names - aloe tiger or aloe striped - because of the characteristic two-tone spotted color. In springtime, you can see its bright beautiful inflorescences of orange or scarlet tone. Therefore, the plant has gained wide popularity among lovers of growing flowers. Despite the fact that the plant comes from hot South African regions, its cheerful stripes can often be seen in an ordinary apartment.

Aloe folded. This variety looks like a small tree with a short trunk. Aloe is often called fan-shaped due to the interesting shape of the leaves arranged in two rows. This species is native to the highlands of South Africa.

Aloe Marlot. The plant is named after the famous German botanist, who devoted more than one year of his life to studying the flora of South Africa. Marlota is an evergreen shrub reaching a height of up to 4 meters. It has large broad leaves with reddish thorns. The flowers have a pleasant bright yellow or orange hue. At home - in the mountainous regions of Africa - sometimes forms entire forests.

Aloe squat. A small perennial herb with blue-green or grey-green leaves and numerous pale thorns. When flowering, it is covered with small flowers of red hues. Characteristic of the South African deserts.

Aloe dichotomous. Tree-like thick-stemmed perennial up to 9 meters long. Leaves with a bluish tint and small spikes on the edges. It grows in southern and southwestern Africa.

Aloe strongly branched. It resembles a small branched shrub, often found on the coasts. A characteristic feature of this variety is considered to be high resistance to temperature drops and the need for little shading in extreme heat. The plant has become especially popular among the owners of personal plots - there it can please the eyes of others, standing on the street until late autumn.

Aloe cap-shaped. Perennial, herbaceous plant with curly stems up to 2 meters long. It has succulent ovoid leaves with white teeth on one side and spines on the other. Flowering is distinguished by a rich scarlet color.

Aloe is pretty. Herbaceous perennial with narrow elongated spotted leaves and small thorns. The flowers are shaped like bells.

Aloe spinous. A small, bushy plant with over a hundred narrow grey-green leaves speckled with white. In the photo of spinous aloe, the shape of a hemisphere is easily guessed. When flowering, it throws out a pedicel with tubular pale orange inflorescences. Due to its small size and numerous healing properties, it is a frequent guest in flower beds. In home care, aloe spinous is unpretentious.

A.albiflora flower

Aloe white-flowered. Quite rare, but very beautiful variety of aloe. Snow-white flowers resemble many fragile buds of lilies. A plant without a stem, with elongated green-gray leaves in a white speck. It is believed that its historical habitat is the island of Madagascar.

Aloe Jackson. A short-stemmed shrub with narrow pale green leaves that end in a thorn. The plant is characterized by a waxy coating. Aloe Jackson can be found everywhere in Somalia and Ethiopia.

Aloe Desconigs. A compact herbaceous plant with long triangular leaves forming basal rosettes. Colors can be very diverse - from light green to brown shades. The leaves are covered with numerous spiny pimples. This variety of aloe vaguely resembles a star in shape.

Aloe haworthiformes. Stemless plant with a significant number of gray-green leaves with white specks. It is covered with numerous light spikes and hairs along the entire length of the leaf. Flowers in delicate pastel colors. This species is native to Madagascar.

Aloe black-thorn. Stemless herbaceous plant up to half a meter in height. It has delta-shaped leaves of dark green shades. A distinctive feature of this species are the spines on the back of the leaf. Like many other types of aloe, black-thorn came to us from the expanses of South Africa. A breeding variety of this variety is also known - black gem.

Aloe spaced. Perennial plant with a long creeping stem up to 3 meters long. Initially, the stem stands straight, but during the life of the plant, it begins to gradually bend and stretch along the ground. Aloe vera has wide leaves with a blue tint and yellowish thorns at the ends.

Medicinal species

Ornamental varieties have not become as widespread as medicinal types of aloe. For example, agave has become a familiar remedy in the fight against non-healing wounds and colds. But, in addition to this plant that has long been familiar to us, there are other varieties that are distinguished by their significant beneficial properties.

Let's take a closer look at the names and photos of aloe:

Aloe soapy

Aloe soapy. Perennial with a significant number of shoots and a short or absent stem. It has dark green leaves with brown spikes at the tips. When flowering, it throws out a long stem with flowers of red and yellow hues.

Aloe barbados

Aloe barbados. Bushy perennial plant with long fleshy leaves. The stem of this species of aloe is shortened and forms several rosettes of sharp-toothed leaves. The color of the plant is grayish green with a pale pink border. Aloe barbadensis is widely used in dermatology as a good restorative agent for various skin lesions and imperfections.

Aloe tree

Aloe tree. The most common type of aloe for home cultivation. The plant is popularly known as because, according to legend, its flowering can only be seen once in a century. However, the story is not entirely true - aloe vera rarely blooms, but there are still more chances to admire its fiery red or orange colors. It is a tree-like fast-growing plant up to several meters high with succulent sword-shaped leaves and small thorns.

Aloe awesome

Aloe is awesome. Massive plant, reaching a length of three meters. It has a separate straight stem with green or pale red leaves. The terrifying aloe owes its interesting name to the numerous thorns on both sides of the leaf. The plant is widely used in pharmaceuticals. It is believed that it was because of him that Alexander the Great captured the island of Socotra, on which varieties of terrifying aloe grew in large numbers.

Aloe present

Aloe real. Medicinal plant, also known as Differs in densely branched stems and succulent light green leaves. Aloe vera is recognized by both folk and professional medicine as an effective remedy for various inflammations and dermatitis.

Indoor aloe flowers are well known to every person. But few people really know how diverse the varieties of aloe are, which ones. Although, the effectiveness of aloe has been repeatedly confirmed by official medicine: succulents are considered a rich source of vitamins of various groups, antioxidants, essential oils and many other nutrients. These modest unpretentious plants will become not only aesthetic, but also a useful part of your flower garden or garden.

Surely you have been familiar with the domestic representative of the Xanthorreaceae family since childhood, and besides, with healing Aloe. Many homes grow this succulent, which features fleshy leaves framed with thorns, arranged in a spiral in densely clustered rosettes.

In the wild, there are about 500 species of plants growing in hot regions - Africa, the Mediterranean and Arabia. These species are very different in their appearance, there are real giants - trees reaching a height of up to 20 meters. There are Lianoid Aloe, and shrubs with long, about half a meter, spreading leaves. Decorative species of certain varieties grow in our homes. You can find the main ones in this article.

Aloe tree ( Aloear borescens - better known as Centenary

At home, with proper care, it can grow up to 1 meter, in nature there are representatives up to 5 meters in height. It has smooth fleshy leaves, greenish-blue in color, with teeth along the edges. In room conditions, the plant almost never blooms, but in nature, large reddish flowers with a pleasant aroma appear in winter seasons.

Aloe arborescens juice has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and regenerating properties. If you accidentally cut or burn yourself, you can anoint the wound with plant juice, or attach a piece of pulp.

Aloe arborescens (Agave) / Aloe arborescens in nature

Aloe spinous ( Aloe aristata)

This species is often confused with Haworthia due to their superficial resemblance. This plant has thick arched leaves, with a rough surface and white patches. At the end of the sheet there is a characteristic white thread. It usually blooms in late spring with red and orange tubular flowers collected in a brush (Haworthia has white flowers).

To distinguish Aloe Spinosa from Haworthia, you need to pay attention to the fact that Aloe is a single plant, and side children appear in Haworthia. Aloe also has a less pronounced pattern and its bulge on the leaves. The adult Haworthia plant is small in size, in contrast to the Scarlet Spinosa.

Aloe squat ( Aloe humilis)

A small herbaceous plant, with dense groups covered with thorns along the edges of the leaves, and a large number of papillae on its outer side. The leaves have a linear-lanceolate structure. It throws out a long peduncle (20-30 cm) with red or orange flowers.

Aloe Vera ( Aloe Vera)

Like Scarlet Tree, it has healing properties. It is distinguished by fleshy leaves with a high water content (97%). The leaves are with pale white patches. The composition of this species is very rich in minerals, amino acids, enzymes and beta-carotene. It is actively used in cosmetology and medicine. In care, a moderate watering regimen should be observed.

Aloe vera

Aloe variegated ( Aloe variegata) - Tiger Aloe

It has dark green smooth leaves with a characteristic tiger pattern. Differs in slow growth. It is necessary to be careful and moderate when watering so that water does not fall on the plant (this can lead to rot and death of the plant). You should also carefully accustom the plant to direct sunlight (it is very sensitive), but it is better to arrange shading if you have a south window. Flowering red-orange inflorescences.

Aloe variegated (Tiger) / Flowering

Aloe protruding (Aloe squarrosa)

Representative with leaves no more than 10 cm, greenish-yellow in color, with oblong white spots, and teeth along the edges. At home, almost never blooms. Particularly unpretentious and fast growing. Can be planted in compositions with other types of succulents. It reproduces well vegetatively.

Aloe folded ( Aloe plicatilis)

An interesting species, characterized by a forked stem, which can fit up to 16 fan-shaped, fleshy leaves. Has a dull green color. The leaves grow no more than 30 cm. Under native conditions, it grows on rocky mountain slopes, reaches sizes up to 5 meters, and looks like a shrub or a small tree.

Aloe hedgehog ( Aloe erinacea)

It has dense dark green leaves with sharp thorns. As they mature, the tips of the leaves and thorns darken. The plant is small, bushy. In nature, it blooms with tubular flowers of red and yellow. There are species with white spines; in some, the length of the spine can reach 1.5 cm.

Aloe Yukunda ( Aloe jucunda)

A very attractive species with bright green serrated leaves adorned with white spots. After a couple of years of life, the plant begins to bloom with small pink flowers, in inflorescences of 20-30 flowers. Begins to bloom in spring and continues into summer. It grows from several outlets, and grows beautifully.

Aloe multifolia ( Aloe polyphylla) - Aloe Spiral

Very beautiful view, with fleshy leaves of a triangular pointed shape, arranged in a spiral. Flowering only in its natural habitat - long peduncle up to 60 cm) with pink, rose-red or yellow flowers. The number of leaves on one outlet, as a rule, is not more than 30 pieces. Quite a rare sight. The spiral can grow clockwise and counterclockwise.

Aloe white-flowered ( Aloe albiflora)

A species of small size with narrow jagged leaves of gray-green color. There are light patches on the leaves. At home, it blooms in winter (with proper care throughout the year) with white inflorescences that look like elongated bells with green shelves. Growth is slow, not whimsical. Tolerates partial shade well.

Its petals are tubular in shape. Aloe flower can have a different color, bright yellow, purple or fiery orange. This article will discuss this amazing plant, its benefits for the human body, and advice will also be given. In addition, the types of aloe, photos and names of all plants will be described.

Varieties of aloe - photo with names

About 400 varieties grow on the desert plains. Its structure is interesting in that even in such a climate, its leaves remain juicy. Their mucus does not go anywhere, but continues to be preserved in the leaves. And although the plant does not have a very attractive appearance, it takes its rightful place on the windowsill of many houses. Only 3 species of this plant are grown in apartments.

Aloe tree

Aloe arborescens or agave, got its name from the fact that in the home environment it blooms once every 100 years, but this is a legend! The shrub has fleshy dark green leaves arranged around the stem. There are soft spikes at their ends, and the leaves themselves are slightly curved. The length of one leaf is not more than 30 cm, they are all filled with juicy and healthy gel-like pulp. The height of the shrub does not exceed 1 meter, and with proper care, it can live up to 20 years. The photo shows a view of this plant.

Aloe vera or real, is widely used in cosmetology and medicine. It looks like a shrub. Its leaves are closely adjacent to each other at the base of the stem. The leaves are long (up to 50 cm) and fleshy, they are green with a haze. On the edges are soft spikes. How does aloe vera bloom? With proper care, the plant begins to bloom at the end of winter. A long arrow emerges from the base of the stem, a bud is formed at its end, in the form of a spikelet. Its petals are tubular in shape and can range in color from yellow to orange. The photo shows what aloe looks like.

Aloe variegated or brindle has a beautiful appearance. It grows no more than 30 cm in height. Its stem is shortened, fleshy leaves are attached to it. The leaves are shaped like an elongated triangle. They have an unusual color, light green leaves with white stripes. The plant is shown in the photo.

Proper care at home

All types of plants belong to the succulent family. All of them are very fond of bright light, so if possible, then in the summer it is better to put it on the street so that as much light as possible falls on it. Zamoy should not replace natural light with different backlights, otherwise the leaves will begin to stretch, and the plant will lose its appearance. Proper care will allow aloe to keep the fleshy leaves and have an attractive appearance.

Transplanting, the right substrate and fertilizers

Today it is not difficult to purchase aloe, sometimes someone can just give a plant. It needs to be transplanted if the pot is small for it, this is indicated by the size of the plant and its appearance. The shrub needs to be replanted every 2 years. In the process, it is important to change the pot and substrate. During transplantation, it is necessary to carefully inspect the roots for the presence of pests and rot.

Important! For normal growth and development of aloe, a small but wide clay pot is suitable.

For growing aloe at home, specially prepared soil for cacti is suitable, such a substrate can be purchased at any flower shop. This soil contains:

• sod land;
• leaf soil;
• fertilizer;
• coarse-grained peso.

Charcoal and white brick can be added to the soil. It is forbidden to add peat to the substrate! This composition makes the soil slightly acidic, which allows the plant to feel comfortable.

Proper watering, air temperature, lighting

Aloe should be watered as the soil dries out. However, it often happens that the leaves do not allow you to check the soil for moisture. In this case, it is recommended that summer watering be carried out no more than 2 times a week, and in winter it is enough to water 2-3 times a month. Frequent watering causes the roots to rot. Watering should be carried out with settled water, its temperature should be at room temperature.

Important! Aloe is forbidden to spray. If dust appears on the leaves, then you just need to wipe it with a soft, damp cloth.

The plant is very light-loving, so in summer it is better to take it out to the balcony. Aloe must get used to the sun's rays, otherwise burns will appear on the leaves.

Aloe loves hot climates, so it tolerates high temperatures very well. In winter, he will feel comfortable at +15 ° C, at low temperatures the plant will freeze.

reproduction

The plant reproduces well by cuttings that appear near the stem. They must be carefully cut and put in water, after a week the roots will appear. After the root system is formed, the cutting must be removed from the water and dried thoroughly. After that, the “baby” of aloe is placed in the ground, the depth should not exceed 3 cm. Some gardeners root the cuttings immediately in the sand.

Important! Cuttings are best done in spring or summer.

Aloe is sometimes grown from seeds. For this, it is recommended to take sterilized soil. Half of the pot is covered with sand, then the earth is poured, distributing it over the pot, then the seeds are laid and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot is covered with a film, and a fluorescent lamp is placed on top. In such conditions, the first shoots will quickly appear.

The healing properties of aloe

The beneficial characteristics of aloe have been known since ancient times, so it has been well studied by many experts. A qualitative effect can be obtained from leaves 3 years old. It is necessary to cut a leaf no shorter than 15 cm, and immediately it must be closed from light and placed in the refrigerator (stored up to a year). Cut leaves lose their effectiveness within 3 hours.

According to experts, medicinal aloe has many positive characteristics:

• vitamin C - seals the walls of blood vessels, stimulates the immune system, improves tooth enamel, provides elasticity to the skin;
• trace elements and minerals - effectively cleanse the body of harmful toxins and toxins, activates the metabolic process, relieves pain;
• vitamin A - stimulates the metabolism of fats, lowers cholesterol;
• catechin - has an anti-allergic effect on the body;
• flavonoids - contribute to the disinfection of the body, and destroy harmful bacteria;
• organic acids - restore the microflora in the digestive organs;
• tannins - have a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect;
• enzymes - slow down the aging process of the body, normalize the secretion of bile and adjust the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Due to its excellent composition, the plant is actively used in cosmetology and medicine. In addition, it is grown at home and used in traditional medicine. However, it is important to consult a doctor before use. Grow aloe correctly and be healthy!