Aloe Vera

plants · succulents · helpful herbs

Stores water inside. Aloe vera has thick, fleshy leaves that are filled with gel and water, which helps the plant survive in dry desert environments where rain is rare.

Spread everywhere. Originally from Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, aloe vera has been brought to so many other parts of the world that it now grows wild in many regions.

Too successful sometimes. In some places, aloe vera has become an invasive species, meaning it grows so well that it crowds out native plants that belong there naturally.

Used for healing. People have used aloe vera gel for thousands of years to soothe sunburns, cuts, and dry skin, making it one of the most popular medicinal plants in the world.

Desert champion. As a succulent plant, aloe vera can go weeks without water by storing moisture in its leaves, making it perfect for hot, dry climates.