Are you here because you were asking yourself is aloe vera a cactus? Let us go straight to the point and answer that no, aloe vera isn’t a cactus. Despite their appearance, they are not actually cacti. You’ll be surprised to learn how different aloe vera and cactus are. In this post, we’ll talk about the similarities that make you think aloe vera is a cactus and the differences that set them apart from each other.
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Why You May Think Aloe Vera Is A Cactus
Aloe vera plants are often confused with cacti for a couple of reasons.
1. Visual Similarities
Visual cues are extremely important to us as humans because without them, we wouldn’t be able to identify anything. Despite this, things that appear to be in the same category but have vastly different internal systems can in fact be quite distinct. The spikes on aloe vera leaves resemble cactus spines, despite the fact that the plants aren’t actually cacti. Because of its resemblance to a cactus, you might have assumed aloe was a cactus.
2. Plant Type
Aloe vera and cacti are both succulents, so there is some sort of link between the two plants. Despite the fact that aloes and cacti are two distinct types of succulents, it’s understandable if you were under the impression that they were somehow related but weren’t quite sure how.
How To Tell Aloes And Cacti Apart
The following characteristics distinguish them from one another: family, leaves, size, blooming frequency, nutrients, edibility, and medical uses.
1. Family
One of the most significant differences between cacti and aloe vera is in their genes. In genetic terms, aloe vera is more like lotus flowers than cactus, and it is a member of the lily family. As bizarre as it may seem, there is a reason for calling it the Lily of Africa.
Our top tips: Aloe vera plants can be planted with other succulents, even if they are in the lily family. Make sure they’re planted near the type of succulents that go dormant in the winter.
2. Leaves
When the aloe vera has strong prickles along the edges, it’s easy to see where the mistake comes from. However, whereas aloe vera has such ridges on its leaves, the spikes on the cactus are the leaves.
The fleshy section of the cactus is the stem, but the stem of an aloe vera plant is not visible. It’s easy to see why an aloe vera plant is classified as a succulent, but not a cactus.
3. Size
Cacti can grow rather large and tall outside of a house, whereas aloe vera prefers to stay close to the ground. Aloe vera plants do not have stems that grow too far up from the soil because of their distinct roles and differences in root structure.
Under the good conditions, their leaves can lengthen and spread rather widely, distinguishing them from other, juicier-looking succulents. Despite the length of the leaves, it retains a substantial amount of mass when compared to plants with thinner leaves.
4. Blooming Frequency
Many cacti species are monocarpic, which means they only produce flowers once before they die. Flowers appear on cacti quite seldom, so you’re lucky if you see one when it’s in its 30s.
In contrast, aloe vera produces blossoms on a regular basis and does not die. You may witness numerous blooms throughout their lifetime, and possibly even in a year if they are carefully cared for!
5. Nutrients
When you know which plant delivers what nutrients, the benefits of consuming aloe vera or cactus may be utilised to their full extent.
With its therapeutic powers, aloe vera contains a variety of antioxidants and vitamins. This means it aids in conditions such as acid reflux, digestion, and detoxification. It’s generally beneficial to your digestive system.
Cacti are fantastic for constructing a healthier body because they include a variety of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and others. However, not all cacti can be devoured!
6. Edibility
While both aloe and cactus are edible, there is a clear difference in the main reasons they are consumed.
While a cactus can provide nourishment, the aloe vera plant can heal you from the inside out. Both are fine to consume in moderation. Because both of these plants have a bitter taste, make sure you know how to cook them properly. The texture takes some getting used to as well.
Warning: Plants are normally safe to eat, but watch out for cacti and succulents, which do not function like most plants. You may be allergic to certain foods in them.
Find out if it’s safe for your dog or cat to eat cactus here!
7. Medical Uses
Aloe vera is beneficial for both the inside and outside of the body. A variety of skin diseases like burns, acne, eczema, and bacterial infections might benefit from aloe. It can also help prevent dental plaque buildup.
Cacti, on the other hand, should not be treated as lightly as aloe vera. Only knowledgeable people can tell you which cactus species are beneficial and safe for you. In the wrong hands, cactus can be poisonous and lethal.
Read our article on 5 Poisonous Types of Cacti here!
Our top tips: In addition to its many benefits for the skin and digestive system, aloe vera also has numerous applications in the hair. Using aloe vera effectively can help you save money on ointments from your local drugstore.
To Sum Up
Having identified the characteristics that differentiate aloe vera from other plants in the same family, we can make the most of each plant’s unique properties. The seven most significant variations are the family, the leaves, the size, the frequency of blooming, the nutrients, the edibility, and the medical applications. Perhaps you could use this as a fun little trivia question to play with all of your succulent-loving friends and family!
Are there any other plants that you believe are frequently misidentified as cacti? Which types of plants do you think are commonly thought to be cacti, and why do you believe this is the case? You can leave your ideas in the comments section down below.