Aloe ferox
Cape Aloe
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Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Description
Aloe ferox, also known as Cape Aloe, Bitter Aloe, Red Aloe and Tap Aloe, is a species of aloe indigenous to South Africa's Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Lesotho. It is one of several Aloe species used to make bitter aloes, a purgative medication, and also yields a non-bitter gel that can be used in cosmetics. Aloe ferox is listed on the plant list of endangered plants (CITES - Appendix II) along with other wild species of this genus.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Blooming
Flowers cluster in the center of the plant. They can come in a number of colors, including red, cream, orange or yellow.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Growth
Aloe should be planted in a place where it will get full sun or light shade. Aloe should also be protected from frost. All species grow in clumps of varying sizes, all with fleshy, pointy leaves surrounding a cluster of flowers.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Planting
They do very well as indoor or outdoor potted plants, but should be protected from frost and very low temperatures.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Pest
Mealybugs. Prone to scale and fungal stem and leaf rots.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Interesting facts
Aloe was first used by the Ancient Egyptians as an element to preserve dead bodies. The effectiveness of the popular species Aloe vera as a wound healer is still controversial. While some evidence suggests that A. vera enhances the rate of healing, others state that it in fact slows down the process. In any case, Aloe vera is used widespread as an herbal medicine. Be warned against excessive ingestion, however, as A. vera can become toxic and has been known to cause kidney dysfunction and hepatitis among other problems.
Cape Aloe (Aloe ferox) - Soil and irrigation
Aloe requires well-drained soil with little to moderate water.