Introduction

Aloes exhibit remarkable morphological variability and range in size from dwarf species only a few centimetres tall, to tree aloes reaching heights of up to 20 m. Aloes form a striking and important component of many arid and semi-arid African landscapes. Most Aloe species occur in arid savanna.

The Details

Aloes are an important component of many dryland ecosystems where they are often associated with species of Acacia, Kleinia, Cissus and Euphorbia (Wabuyele and Kyalo, 2008). Aloes produce copious amounts of nectar, a vital food source for an abundance of avian and insect species across southern Africa during the dry winter months.

Aloes are dependent on animal visitors for pollination and seed set. Many Aloe species attract insect and bird pollinators by providing abundant nectar primarily during winter, when alternative sources of food are not available.

Aloe leaves are renowned for their medicinal properties, and have been important medicinal plants for centuries. The juice has been used to soothe skin, and has also been used as a laxative.

Additional Reading: Reproductive ecology of Aloe plicatilis