Although aloes and cacti are not botanically related, they have a lot in common. Both belong to the group of succulents, have thorns and are able to survive for a long time without water due to their pronounced water storage organs.
Aloe vera and cacti have quite a lot in common
The aloes are a separate genus from the grass tree family (Xanthorrhoeaceae) with a total of around 500 species. The cacti form their own family with over 100 genera and between 1500 and 1800 species. The cacti are among the so-called stem succulents, i. H. they store water in their sprout. The aloes, on the other hand, use their leaves as water storage organs, they are leaf succulents.
distribution and use
The gel contained in the leaves of aloe vera is valued for its active ingredients that care for and regenerate the skin. While the wild aloe species grow in the deserts and rocky regions of Africa and on the offshore islands, the cultivation areas for extracting the gel from aloe vera can be found all over the world. The wild cacti only occur in nature on the American continent.
Easy-care indoor plants with an extraordinary appearance
Like cacti, aloe vera and other aloe species are popular indoor plants because of their bizarre appearance. In addition, they are particularly well suited for people who cannot spare much time for complex plant care. Aloes and cacti don't mind if you forget to water them for a few weeks.
Aloes and cacti have even more in common:
- like all succulents, they like it warm, light and dry,
- they prefer sunny locations,
- do not like excessive moisture and
- produce beautiful flowers under good conditions,
- both types of succulents propagate by cuttings.
tips and tricks
A close resemblance in appearance exists between aloe and agave. However, aloe plants do not die after flowering like agaves do.