2. Aloe and its varieties

Characteristics:

THE'Aloe is a plant succulent belonging to the family of Asphodelaceae, perennial and shrubby, native to Africa and some neighbouring areas such as the Arabian Peninsula and Madagascar. It tends to be very often confused with the Agaves, but differs from the latter above all in the shape of the younger leaves, which in Aloe have a characteristic ray-like opening. Another notable difference is in flowering. In Agave it indicates the last phase of the plant's life, while in Aloe it is part of the annual flowering cycle.

They are part of this plant numerous varieties, with different colors, shapes and sizes that vary from 15 to 150 centimeters in height. It is also highly appreciated for its ability to be very decorative and ornamental, for its notable and showy blooms and also for the emollient and purifying properties that its "juice" possesses.

Aloe is a plant defined self-sterile: that is, each individual has both male and female flowers, but to obtain fertile seeds it must undergo cross-pollination between two different individuals.

Cultivation:

Plants of the genus Aloe present multiple specimens and varieties in size, color, blooms and shapes. Some species have no stem and the leaves emerge directly from the ground arranged in a rosette. While in other species the stem is woody or branched.

Their natural habitat is characterized by a very hot and arid environment and they cannot tolerate cold temperatures. For this reason, it is advisable to grow them in regions or areas that respect as much as possible the climatic characteristics to which they are accustomed. They need to be cultivated in a sandy and slightly acidic soil, to which it is possible to add a part of common soil. fertilization It can be done once a month in the period from May to October.

If you opt for the indoor cultivation you need to place them in fairly wide pots. In this way they will be able to accommodate its roots that tend to develop in width rather than in depth. It will therefore be important to distribute a layer of clay on the bottom so as to favor the drainage of the soil.

They prefer a position that is in full sun and do not tolerate low temperatures well. It is therefore advisable to never expose them to temperatures below 5 °C. It is advisable water the soil abundantly during hot periods, therefore in the period from spring to summer (also taking care not to wet the leaves), so that the plant can integrate its water reserves, but it is also advisable to always do it when the soil is completely dry, while in winter they should be completely suspended. The plants grow quickly and will need to be repotted every year at the beginning of spring.

Another very important aspect is that of do not prune Aloe plants, unless in pot cultivation there is the presence of old and damaged leaves that can become a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites that are dangerous for the plant itself.

Aloe Varieties:

As previously mentioned, plants of the Aloe genus have many varieties that differ from each other in size, color, bloom and shape.

So here are some of the varieties found in nature:

• L'Aloe Humilis: small species of South African origin that can easily be seen grown in pots due to the beauty and liveliness of its flowers; 
• Aloe Barbadensis: or better known as Aloe vera, is the species from which the famous gel is extracted, useful for its soothing, healing and purifying properties;
• Aloe Chinensis: it is the most expensive variety, which is why it is also among the least widespread; 
• L'Aloe Arborescens: Originally from North Africa, it is easily found in all continents, especially in maritime areas;
• Aloe Ferox: a plant typical of South Africa that adapts easily to Mediterranean climates.

Plant diseases:

Aloe plants can be affected by diseases and parasites, one of these diseases, called “the white sickness”, consists of a light-coloured patina that completely covers the plant which must be cared for using the copper sulfur.

A common parasite that often nests among its leaves is the cochineal. It is a parasite that attacks the plant and causes a change in the color of the Aloe leaves, making it lose its characteristic streaks. Some of the most common reasons can be: poor exposure to light, or inadequate watering, or even exposure to temperatures that are too cold.

Very often it is possible to witness the discoloration of the Aloe, this is generally the consequence due to the presence of one or more colonies of parasites in the plant. It will therefore be necessary to make sure that there is actually the presence of some nest and, if so, eliminate it as soon as possible with the use of products recommended by your trusted gardener.