El Aloe vera It is one of the most popular medicinal and ornamental plants in the worldCultivated since ancient times for its extraordinary properties and wide adaptability, it has become a common presence in homes, gardens, and health centers. It stands out not only for the benefits it provides to the skin and the body, but also for its unique beauty and ease of cultivation. However, there is some confusion about what the herb actually is. Aloe vera and how many types there are, as well as the differences between this species and other related aloes.
In this article you will discover in depth what Aloe vera is, how to distinguish it from other species, what varieties exist in the Aloe genus and which ones have medicinal or decorative uses.In addition, you'll learn to identify the main similar species and their characteristics, delving deeper into the care and history of these fascinating succulent plants.
Why is it thought that there are different types of Aloe vera?
The gender Aloe It covers more than 500 species known around the world, originating mainly from Africa, Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula. Many people believe that there are different types of Aloe vera because their specimens often present variations in appearance, color, presence of spots or size.
This confusion is compounded by the fact that many nurseries and retailers label different species simply as "Aloe vera," even though botanically only one species bears this name. Furthermore, the morphological similarity between several species of the Aloe genus, such as Aloe arborescens, aloe ferox o aloe maculate, can lead to identification errors.
The authentic Aloe vera corresponds to the species Aloe barbadensis Miller, although it has received different scientific names throughout history. Other species, although related and with similar uses, should not be considered varieties of Aloe vera but rather distinct species of the extensive and fascinating genus Aloe.
Diversity and taxonomy: How many species of Aloe are there?
The gender Aloe It constitutes one of the richest and most diverse groups of succulent plantsMore than 500 different species have been recorded, distributed in habitats ranging from desert and semi-desert areas to tropical savannah regions.
Some of the characteristics shared by the vast majority of species of the Aloe genus are:
- Fleshy leaves, usually arranged in compact rosettes, often triangular and with serrated edges.
- Presence of thorns or teeth on the margins of the leaves, although some species lack them.
- Flowers arranged in long inflorescences vertical spike-shaped, in colors that vary between yellow, orange, red or coral.
- Ability to produce offspring or basal shoots, which facilitates their propagation and occupation of space.
- Adaptability to drought thanks to its water reserves in leaves and stem.
El Aloe vera, also known as aloe, stands out for its worldwide fame, but other species such as Aloe arborescens, aloe ferox, aloe maculate o Aloe aristata They also have medicinal or ornamental value, and it is common for them to be mixed in collections and gardens without any clear distinction between them.
Nomenclature: What names has Aloe vera received?
El Aloe vera It has been historically described with multiple scientific names, which has led to confusion in botanical literature and popular culture. The most well-known names and synonyms include:
- Aloe barbadensis Miller: Internationally valid and preferred name. It is synonymous with Aloe vera.
- Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f.: Most popular name due to its simplicity.
- Aloe chinensis
- aloe indicates
- Aloe perfoliata var. barbadensis
- Aloe rubescens
- aloe vulgaris
Some trade and garden names, such as Aloe barbadensis Miller, Aloe vera Barbadensis o Aloe vera, do not correspond to real subspecies or varieties, but to historical or regional denominations, being Aloe vera y Aloe barbadensis the same species. The names barbadensis y miller They simply refer to the location (Barbados) and the botanist who first described it.
Are there different varieties of Aloe vera?
Strictly speaking, there are no official botanical varieties within the species. Aloe veraAll differences seen in the appearance of plants grown in different climates, soils, or stages of development correspond to individual variations and not to recognized subspecies.
What does happen is that different related species can be confused with Aloe vera due to the similarity of their leaves, flowers, or growth habits. Some of the most commonly confused species include:
- Aloe arborescens (candelabra aloe, octopus plant)
- aloe ferox (Cape aloe)
- aloe maculate (aloe soapwort)
- aloe striata (coral aloe)
- Aloe aristata (lace aloe)
- aloe brevifolia (alligator tooth aloe)
- Aloe variegata (tiger aloe or partridge breast)
- aloe juvenna (dwarf aloe)
- aloe ciliaris (climbing aloe)
- Aloe humilis
These species, although genetically distinct, share many morphological characteristics, which is why they are often informally called "aloe vera." Therefore, there is only one true Aloe vera, but there are many species of Aloe with a similar appearance.
Why do some Aloe vera have white spots?
The White spots or dots on Aloe vera leaves They usually appear in young specimens and tend to disappear as the plant matures. This is a normal trait and does not indicate a distinct variety or affect its properties.
White spots can be confused with species such as aloe maculate o aloe juvenna, which retain their white spots into adulthood. In the case of Aloe veraThese spots disappear almost completely in adult plants, retaining a uniform green color with a glaucous tone in the surface layer.
What are the medicinal properties and benefits of Aloe vera?
Aloe vera is widely valued in traditional medicine and modern cosmetics for its therapeutic properties.:
- Natural antisepticAloe vera gel contains compounds such as aloin, acemannan, and saponins that act as disinfectants against bacteria, fungi, and certain viruses.
- Moisturizing: It is one of the most effective ingredients for hydrating skin and hair, helping to restore the skin barrier.
- Healing: Its ability to promote cell regeneration makes it an ideal ally for healing wounds, minor burns, bites and abrasions.
- Anti-inflammatory: The gel helps reduce inflammation, which is why it is used both topically and in preparations for internal consumption.
- Digestive regulator: Consumed in small quantities, Aloe vera can help regulate intestinal transit and relieve occasional constipation.
- Sunscreen and soothing: Its compounds soothe irritated skin after sun exposure and prevent oxidative damage.
These properties have been confirmed by numerous studies, and the plant is used in a wide variety of cosmetic products, gels, juices, beverages, creams, and nutritional supplements. For direct consumption of the gel, it is recommended to remove the yellow layer (bitter or aloin), as it can be irritating or act as a powerful laxative..
Main species of Aloe similar to Aloe vera
Within the diversity of the Aloe genus, numerous species stand out, which, although sometimes confused with Aloe vera, have unique characteristics and, in many cases, important medicinal and ornamental benefits.Let's look at the main ones:
- Aloe arborescensKnown as candelabra aloe or octopus plant, it can grow up to 4 meters tall and is notable for its arched, highly serrated, glaucous-green leaves. Its flowers are orange or red, and it blooms in winter. It is valued for its healing and immunostimulating properties.
- aloe ferox: Called Cape aloe, it has a robust central stem that can grow to over 2 meters. Its leaves are large, green, and spiny, and its red flowers emerge in dense inflorescences. It is used as a laxative and in cosmetics.
- aloe maculate: Endemic to South Africa, its leaves have persistent white spots, are very fleshy and broad, and bear red flowers clustered in spikes. Its sap produces a soapy foam and is used to treat burns and irritations.
- aloe striataKnown as coral aloe, it is spineless and has broad, smooth, grayish-green leaves with coral-colored margins. It is highly prized as an ornamental plant, although its gel also soothes minor irritations.
- Aloe aristata:Called lace aloe or torch plant, it is a small rosette (15–30 cm in diameter) with pointed, white-mottled leaves. Highly ornamental and drought-resistant, its roots are used as a mild wound healing agent.
- aloe brevifoliaUp to 15 cm tall, forming dense rosettes of short, triangular, toothed leaves. Popular in rockery gardens and as a houseplant.
- Aloe variegata: Known as partridge breast or tiger aloe, it's ideal for indoor cultivation, with thick leaves and white stripes. It blooms in winter and spring with salmon-colored flowers.
- aloe juvennaSmall, with upright rosettes, green leaves with white speckles, and spines. It blooms in spring and summer with red-orange bells.
- aloe ciliarisThe climbing aloe grows up to 10 meters tall, has long, thin, lanceolate leaves with serrated edges and scarlet flowers. Very hardy.
- Aloe humilis: Compact, triangular leaves with white teeth, produces red, orange or yellow flowers.
Key differences to identify Aloe vera
To correctly identify the true Aloe vera and distinguish it from other similar species, pay attention to the following features:
- LeavesLight green to glaucous, fleshy, long and slightly arched, with finely toothed edges. Young plants may have white spots, but these disappear in adulthood.
- Flores: Spike-shaped inflorescences, pale yellow to orange in color. The racemes are dense and erect.
- Doors: It usually forms low rosettes (30-70 cm), without a visible stem or with a very short one.
- Gel and: When its leaves are cut, a transparent, odorless and very mucilaginous gel exudes.
- Sabur or bitterBetween the skin and the gel there is a deep yellow, bitter, laxative layer that must be removed for safe consumption.
Faced with this, species such as Aloe arborescens They have more curved and serrated leaves, aloe maculate never loses the white spots and aloe striata It lacks thorns on the margin of its leaves.
Main medicinal and cosmetic uses of Aloe vera
- Skin care: Its gel is ideal for hydration, regeneration and protection, especially after burns, cuts, sunburns and conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
- Hair regeneration: Applied to the scalp, it helps strengthen the follicle, combat dandruff and regulate oil.
- Drinks and juices: By correcting its bitter taste and eliminating the bitterness, the gel can be consumed to improve digestion, regulate intestinal transit and as a purifying tonic.
- Treatment of bites and itches: Due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, it is an immediate remedy after insect bites or contact with stinging plants.
- Oral care: It is used in mouthwashes and toothpastes to relieve sores, canker sores, and as a natural antimicrobial.
Important: The gel Aloe vera It is safe to use once the bitterness is removed. If you choose to consume the pure gel, be sure to completely remove the yellow layer covering the gel to avoid unwanted side effects.
Essential tips for growing and caring for Aloe vera and other Aloe species
- Light and temperatureAloe species require abundant sunlight. Indoors, place them next to a bright window. They thrive in warm climates and are sensitive to frost, although some species can tolerate slight drops in temperature.
- Moderate wateringWater only when the substrate is completely dry. Excess moisture is the main enemy, causing rot.
- SubstratumThey prefer light, sandy, and well-drained soils. A cactus substrate is ideal. It can be improved with perlite, gravel, or coarse sand.
- FertilizerFertilize once in early spring with cactus or succulent fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
- Propagation: By means of suckers or shoots that grow at the base of the adult plants, which are easily transplantable.
- Plagues and diseases: It can be affected by mealybugs, fungi, or rot caused by overwatering. It's advisable to monitor the condition of the leaves and avoid waterlogging.
Other types of Aloe interesting for collectors and gardeners
- Aloe marlothii: Mountain aloe, reaches up to 6 meters, very robust leaves, flowers in yellow, orange or red.
- Aloe polyphyllaSpiral aloe, native to Lesotho, highly valued decoratively for the spiral arrangement of its leaves.
- Aloe plicatilis: Fan-shaped aloe, with long, flat leaves arranged like a fan, an endangered species.
- Aloe macra, Aloe mitriformis, aloe squarrose, Aloe dorotheae, Aloe vaombe: All with ornamental qualities highly appreciated in succulent gardening.
Which species of Aloe are suitable and safe for consumption?
While Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is the most widely used as an edible and cosmetic product., other species such as Aloe arborescens, aloe ferox y aloe maculate They also contain active compounds, although their concentrations and effects vary. Only a few species have been safety tested for domestic consumption; the rest are used primarily for ornamental purposes or in highly localized traditional preparations.
For food consumption, it is always advisable to purchase certified products. to ensure the correct elimination of the bitterness. The juice of Aloe vera It is carefully extracted and is a source of vitamins, minerals and polysaccharides that are beneficial for the body.
The Aloe genus is a universe of fascinating species, among which Aloe vera It shines for its worldwide recognition and numerous applications. However, knowing its relatives and learning to distinguish them allows you to better take advantage of its qualities and cultivate a varied, healthy, and decorative collection both at home and in the garden.