Aloe vera . . .
or, as we say, 'Allo, Vera, 'ow yer doin', ducks?'
I planted a selection of Aloe vera plants in a shallow bowl in February.
They grew rapidly and have produced offsets, called ‘pups,’ which could be potted separately. They are relatively easy to look after and, as they are succulents, they do not need enormous amounts of water. In fact, the advice is to allow them to dry out completely between waterings. They enjoy bright light but can get ‘sunburnt’ and turn red if subjected to too much direct sun.
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In their natural habitat, they produce tall spikes of yellow flowers, but are unlikely to do so in temperate climates. Having said that, I have just seen a flowering aloe advertised on ebay. As it’s being sold in a 9cm pot, I don’t think it will be flowering very soon; it is more a case of it being a plant that could flower, with luck.
Aloe vera originates from the Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia. The Arabian Peninsula is the birthplace of Islam and is the largest peninsula in the world, with Saudi Arabia occupying around four fifths of it.
The Ancient Egyptians called Aloe vera ‘the plant of immortality’ and it was believed that Cleopatra used the gel from the leaves more than 2,000 years ago as a cosmetic. The gel is both soothing and hydrating.
In modern times, Aloe vera is cultivated for use in products to alleviate sunburn or insect bites as well as in cosmetics and hair care. Agricultural production is conducted in many countries including Australia, China, India, Mexico and South Africa. Most of the harvest is used in the cosmetics industry, but some may be included in the manufacture of facial tissues and shaving cream, because of its moisturising, emollient properties.
I have found that squeezing the cooling gel from a leaf onto a scalded or sore hand brings immediate relief, though other people may report an adverse reaction to it. It's toxic to humans and animals, so not suitable for curious animals or inquisitive tots, who enjoy learning through their mouths.
