ALOE

genus of shrubby succulent plants in the lily family (Liliaceae), containing about 200 species native to Africa. Most members of the genus have a rosette of leaves at the base but no stem. Several species are cultivated as ornamentals for their sharp-pointed, spiny leaves and colourful clusters of yellow or red flowers. The juice of some species, especially the popular pot plant known as true aloe (Aloe vera), is used as an ingredient in cosmetics and in medicine as a purgative and as a treatment for burns.