Barbadensis

Barbadensis is the specific epithet used in the historic botanical name Aloe barbadensis Miller. In modern taxonomy, the plant most widely known as aloe vera is Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f., and Aloe barbadensis Miller is treated as a synonym of Aloe vera.

Aloe vera is a succulent perennial in the family Asphodelaceae. It forms a rosette of thick, fleshy leaves with serrated margins. The leaves contain a clear, gel-like pulp that is widely marketed for topical and cosmetic uses. The plant also produces a tall flowering stalk with tubular yellow to orange flowers under suitable conditions.

Native range is disputed; many sources attribute origin to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is now cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions and has become naturalized in many areas beyond its native range.

Uses: The leaf gel is used in cosmetics, skin care, wound care, and some traditional medicines. The latex—the yellow sap beneath the outer leaf epidermis—contains anthraquinones such as aloin and has historically been used as a laxative. Because of safety concerns, internal use is regulated and often avoided in modern products.

Cultivation: Aloe vera prefers well-drained soil and bright light, tolerates drought, and requires infrequent watering. It propagates mainly by offshoots (pups) and seeds. It is considered low-maintenance but sensitive to overwatering and cold temperatures.