Aloe

Aloe, a genus of succulent plants in the Asphodelaceae family, is renowned for its thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making it well-suited to arid environments. The most famous species, Aloe vera, features long, lance-shaped leaves with serrated edges, often green or grayish-green with a gel-filled interior used for centuries in skincare, cosmetics, and traditional medicine due to its soothing and moisturizing properties. Native to the Arabian Peninsula but cultivated worldwide, aloes vary in size from small rosettes to large, tree-like forms like Aloe ferox. Many species produce vibrant tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, or yellow, attracting pollinators. Prized for their drought tolerance and striking appearance, aloes are popular in ornamental gardening and as low-maintenance houseplants, thriving in well-drained soil and bright light.