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Aloe maculata - All.

Common Name Soap Aloe
Family Asphodelaceae
USDA hardiness 8-12
Known Hazards The sap of Aloe species contains anthraquinones. These compounds have several beneficial medicinal actions, particularly as a laxative, and many species of Aloe are thus employed in traditional medicine. Whilst safe in small doses and for short periods, anthraquinones have potential problems if used in excess. These include congestion and irritation of the pelvic organs[299]. Long-term use of anthraquinone laxatives may also play a role in the development of colorectal cancer as they have genotoxic potential and tumorigenic potential[299].
Habitats Naturally found in subtropical and semi-arid regions of South Africa. Its habitat is Rocky slopes and outcrops, often growing on hillsides and rocky terrain with good drainage. Grasslands. Bushveld and savanna: Common in dry shrublands and savanna ecosystems. Thrives in areas with seasonal rainfall, tolerating both summer and winter rainfall patterns.
Range Native to South Africa and introduced to various regions worldwide, including Africa, Europe, the Americas and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand).
Edibility Rating    (2 of 5)
Other Uses    (2 of 5)
Weed Potential No
Medicinal Rating    (2 of 5)
Care (info)
Tender Well drained soil Moist Soil Semi-shade Full sun
Aloe maculata Soap Aloe


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Aloe maculata Soap Aloe
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Summary

Aloe maculata (Soap Aloe) has limited edible uses due to the presence of potentially toxic compounds, but it has been traditionally used in some ways. Aloe maculata (Soap Aloe) has several traditional medicinal uses, although it is less widely studied or commercially used than Aloe vera. Due to its drought tolerance, it is often used in xeriscaping and erosion control. Ornamental. Aloe species can be used as a drought-resistant ground cover, helping to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. They may also provide habitat for beneficial insects.


Physical Characteristics

 icon of manicon of flower
Aloe maculata is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in) at a medium rate.
See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by Birds (especially sunbirds or hummingbirds in its native range), bees, insects. The plant is not self-fertile.
It is noted for attracting wildlife.
Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils.
It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

UK Hardiness Map US Hardiness Map

Synonyms

A. maculata subsp. ficksburgensis (Reynolds) Gideon F.Sm. & Figueiredo. A. maculata subsp. maculata

Plant Habitats

Edible Uses

Aloe maculata (Soap Aloe) has limited edible uses due to the presence of potentially toxic compounds, but it has been traditionally used in some ways. However, caution is essential when consuming any part of this plant. Leaf Gel (Inner Flesh): The clear gel inside the leaves is technically edible and can be used similarly to Aloe vera in small amounts. It has been used traditionally to make soothing drinks or added to foods for its mild flavour and potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion. Preparation: The gel must be carefully extracted, avoiding the outer skin and yellow sap (latex), which contain bitter and potentially harmful compounds like anthraquinones. Latex or Sap: The yellow latex beneath the leaf skin contains saponins and anthraquinones, which act as a strong laxative. However, consuming this latex is not recommended due to its potential toxicity and irritation of the digestive system. Traditional Beverages: In some traditional practices, the gel has been diluted in water or other liquids to make cooling drinks, particularly in arid regions. These beverages were consumed sparingly and with knowledge of how to process the plant safely. Caution: Toxicity: The latex and outer skin of Aloe maculata contain compounds that can cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and even poisoning if ingested in large quantities. Prolonged or excessive use may lead to severe health issues, including liver or kidney damage. Irritation: The saponins in the plant can irritate the digestive tract and are unsuitable for regular consumption. Proper Preparation: Only the clear inner gel should be consumed, thoroughly rinsed, and separated from the yellow sap.

References   More on Edible Uses

Medicinal Uses

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


Aloe maculata (Soap Aloe) has several traditional medicinal uses, although it is less widely studied or commercially used than Aloe vera. Wound Healing: The gel from its leaves is traditionally applied to cuts, burns, and sores to promote healing and soothe the skin. Skin Conditions: Its gel treats insect bites, sunburns, and other minor skin irritations due to its cooling and soothing effects. Antiseptic Properties: Like other Aloe species, Aloe maculata contains compounds with mild antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which may help prevent infections in minor wounds. Digestive Aid: In some traditional practices, extracts from the plant were used in small amounts as a laxative or to address stomach ailments. However, this use requires caution due to potential toxicity when consumed in large quantities. Caution: Aloe maculata contains compounds such as saponins (responsible for its soap-like properties) and anthraquinones, which can be toxic in large doses, particularly when ingested. Its sap or latex (the yellowish substance near the leaf base) may irritate the skin or mucous membranes and should only be consumed with proper knowledge. Modern Medicinal Potential: Although it has not been as extensively studied as Aloe vera, Aloe maculata likely shares similar properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing effects, due to its phytochemical composition. However, its medicinal use is primarily limited to traditional practices and topical applications.

References   More on Medicinal Uses

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Other Uses

Due to its drought tolerance, it is often used in xeriscaping and erosion control. Ornamental. Produces tubular orange, red, or yellow flowers on tall stalks, particularly in the winter and spring. Aloe species can be used as a drought-resistant ground cover, helping to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. They may also provide habitat for beneficial insects. Nectary - Flowers rich in nectar and pollen: Aloe species produce tubular flowers rich in nectar, attracting pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. Wildlife - Food (Fruit, Seeds, Leaf litter, Shelter, Nesting, Roosting): While Aloe plants are primarily known for their medicinal properties and edible gel, they can provide food for some wildlife. The flowers are edible and may attract pollinators. Aloe’s dense foliage can offer some shelter for small animals. Invertebrate Shelter (Overwintering sites, Leaf litter, Groundcover): Aloe species do not typically provide significant overwintering sites for invertebrates, nor do they produce leaf litter in a way that contributes to ground cover or shelter. Pest Confuser (Smell): Aloe species do not have a strong scent that is known to confuse pests, although their presence may help deter some pests due to their sap.

Special Uses

References   More on Other Uses

Cultivation details

Aloe maculata, also known as Soap Aloe, is naturally found in subtropical and semi-arid regions of South Africa. Rocky slopes and outcrops typically characterise their habitat. It often grows on hillsides and rocky terrain with good drainage. It also grows in Open Grasslands, where it receives plenty of sunlight. Bushveld and savanna: Bushveld and savanna are common in dry shrublands and savanna ecosystems. Thrives in areas with seasonal rainfall, tolerating both summer and winter rainfall patterns. It is drought-tolerant and suited to warm, sunny climates but can survive occasional frost. Soil Texture: It prefers light (sandy) or medium soils. It can tolerate some clay if it is well-drained. Soil Moisture: It thrives in dry to moderately moist soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but does not do well in overly wet conditions. Drainage: It requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Soil pH: Adaptable to a range of soil pH levels: acid, neutral, or alkaline. Saline Tolerance: Can tolerate saline conditions, making it suitable for coastal gardens. Tolerance of Poor Soil: can thrive in poor, nutrient-deficient soils. Light Requirements: Prefers full sun but can also tolerate semi-shade (though flowering may be reduced in lower light conditions). Height: Grows to about 30–60 cm (1–2 feet) in height, with a similar spread. Pollination: Pollinated by birds (especially sunbirds or hummingbirds in their native range), bees, and other insects. Temperature: It is frost-tender and should be protected in areas with freezing temperatures. Plants are damaged by temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C) but recover quickly. Ideal for USDA zones 8–12. Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids or scale insects. Aloe leaves can be harvested year-round, but mature leaves are generally harvested in late spring to summer when the plant is most vigorous for specific products like aloe vera gel. Many aloe species are not self-fertile and require cross-pollination with other plants for successful seed production. Aloe species typically flower in late winter to early spring, depending on the species and local climate conditions. The native range of this species is S. Africa. It is a succulent subshrub and grows primarily in the subtropical biome. Aloe maculata is native to Cape Provinces, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Lesotho, and Northern Provinces. It has been introduced into Argentina Northeast, Baleares, Corse, Italy, Mauritius, Mexico Central, Mexico Northeast, New South Wales (Australia), New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Norfolk Is., Portugal, Queensland (Australia), Réunion, Sicilia, South Australia, Spain, St.Helena, and Tasmania (Australia).

References   Carbon Farming Information and Carbon Sequestration Information

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Plant Propagation

Easily propagated from offsets or seeds.

Other Names

If available other names are mentioned here

Soap aloe, Zebra aloe, Bontaalwyn in Afrikaans, or lekhala in the Sesotho language.

Native Range

Native to: Cape Provinces, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Lesotho, Northern Provinces.

Weed Potential

Right plant wrong place. We are currently updating this section. Please note that a plant may be invasive in one area but may not in your area so it’s worth checking.

None Known

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants Status : Not Available

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Growth: S = slow M = medium F = fast. Soil: L = light (sandy) M = medium H = heavy (clay). pH: A = acid N = neutral B = basic (alkaline). Shade: F = full shade S = semi-shade N = no shade. Moisture: D = dry M = Moist We = wet Wa = water.

 

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