Aloe Vera is a total favorite for indoor gardeners because it’s so low-maintenance, and it even loves hanging out on the patio during the summer months. With those thick, fleshy leaves lined with tiny spikes, it definitely looks like it belongs in the succulent family. Since cacti also have thorns and spikes, it’s easy to assume Aloe Vera is just another type of cactus. But here’s a fun plant fact: that’s actually a common misconception!
Aloe Vera Is Not a Cactus
Even though they look like cousins, Aloes and cacti aren’t botanically related at all. They do, however, share some pretty cool “survival gear” that makes them look similar:
- Both are classified as succulents.
- Both feature thorns or spikes.
- Both have specialized organs for storing water.
- Both can survive for long stretches without a single drop of water.
Everything You Need to Know About Aloe Vera
Aloe belongs to the Xanthorrhoeaceae family (try saying that three times fast!), which includes about 500 different species. Aloes are specifically “leaf succulents” because they use those chunky leaves to store their water reserves. Aloe Vera is a superstar in the plant world because it’s incredibly hardy—it won’t hold a grudge if you forget to water it for a while. Plus, the gel inside those leaves is a skincare miracle worker; it’s famous for soothing and regenerating the skin after a sunburn.
In the wild, you’ll find various Aloe species thriving in the deserts and rocky terrains of Africa.
Fun Facts About Cacti
Cacti belong to their own unique family with over 100 genera and more than 1,500 species. Unlike Aloes, they are “stem succulents,” meaning they store all their water in their main body or stem rather than their leaves. While we love them as indoor decor here in the States, wild cacti are actually native only to North and South America. They are beloved for their quirky, often bizarre shapes and the fact that they are nearly impossible to kill—they won’t wilt the moment you skip a watering session.
What Else Do Aloe and Cacti Have in Common?
Since both are succulents, they share a love for warm, bright, and dry spots. They aren’t shy about soaking up direct sunlight, either! Thanks to their built-in water tanks, they only need a light drink every now and then. The one thing they both hate? “Soggy feet.” Standing water leads to root rot, so good drainage is a must. If you give them the right light and just enough love, both plants will reward you with beautiful blooms. And if you want more plant babies, both Aloes and cacti are super easy to propagate from cuttings!
