“Just put some aloe on it.”
Fans of the TV sitcom “Seinfeld” will recall this advice as being the call of the unconcerned dermatologist. While we certainly value the work dermatologists do and, in no way wish to minimize their vocation, you have to admit that this is a pretty good line. Aloe vera has been used for centuries by humans around the globe to treat wounds, burns, and reduce fever. In modern times, aloe vera is cultivated and widely used in lotions, creams, cosmetics, and even foods. Let’s take a closer look at this wonder-plant and how it can dramatically improve your Central Florida garden space.
Throughout History
Aloe vera is one of the oldest mentioned plants in written history. Ancient Egyptian and Chinese writers have commented on the plant’s healing and soothing abilities. The legendary Egyptian queen Cleopatra is rumored to have used the plant in her daily skin treatments. Macedonian military might Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra (an island off the coast of modern-day Yemen) for the sole purpose of securing enough aloe vera to treat his soldier’s wounds. Indeed, aloe vera has been important to humans since the beginning of civilization.
If you break off a piece of the fleshy stem of the aloe vera plant, you will see a gel-like liquid that the plant naturally produces. This “wound” will quickly heal over at the point of the cut and will eventually grow back to its original state. The portion of the plant that has been cut off can be maintained in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Multiple skin issues, (including the dreaded poison ivy) can be treated using this gel as well as the resinous yellow “aloin” that is found when you cut a piece off of a plant.
Aloe vera originated in the Arabian Peninsula, but grows well in arid climates around the world. In addition to its commercial and medicinal benefits, it is also a really attractive plant that makes an excellent addition to any landscaped garden. Additionally, aloe vera plants require very little water to thrive. In fact, experts recommend that you water your aloe vera plants once every three weeks and even less frequently during the winter months. Even gardeners whose thumbs are far from green can successfully maintain these wonderful plants.
In Your Yard
Aloe plants can be a perfect fit for your yard. In addition to being practical and attractive, these plants even attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Aloe vera plants like sunshine. That’s great news for us here in the Sunshine State. Incorporating a few aloe plants into your yard’s garden is an easy way to make it look better without the fuss of more high-maintenance plants.
If you’re interested in adding aloe vera plants to your home’s garden, give us at Aventura Nursery & Landscaping a call at (352) 799-3200 today. We are currently offering special prices on all types of aloe as well as discounts on bamboo, jasmine, and jade. We look forward to helping you make your yard look its absolute best.