Monday 14 January 2019

Aloes (Aloe vera)



Aloes (as we call it) grows all over Barbados almost like a weed. It is hardy so is perfect for salty or windswept environments, and will thrive in a pot. Due to the serrated edge of each “leaf”, Aloes needs to be handled with care.


If Aloes is in a location that it likes, it will spread quite quickly (and outgrow it’s pot). Each plant puts out tall flower stalks, some of which are shown here - the stalk with the still growing flower buds and a stalk with flowers that are fully open.


If you come across any Aloe plants on your travels, pull up a chair and get out your camera, as it won’t be long before you see the hummingbirds and banaquits coming to feed on the nectar. 


I am not aware of Aloe vera being grown commercially in Barbados, but you can find locally made products that contain it, and sometimes the raw product can be found selling on the beach as a treatment for sunburn.

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