Tag: Succulent care

The African milk tree, or *Euphorbia trigona*, is often mistaken for a cactus due to its spiny, columnar appearance. This architectural succulent offers several benefits for indoor growers, including its low-maintenance nature and potential air-purifying capabilities.

According to ancient traditions spanning several cultures, Kalanchoe has long been utilized for its healing properties, including its use in treating infections and inflammation. Modern scientific research is beginning to validate many of these time-honored practices by uncovering the potent compounds and diverse Kalanchoe benefits found within the plant.

While some succulents have long been staples in traditional cuisines, many popular ornamental varieties are poisonous. Can succulents be eaten? The answer is a complex mix of culinary potential and critical safety precautions, demanding proper identification before any consumption attempt.

Aloe vera plants use their leaves for photosynthesis, so keeping them clean from dust is crucial for their health. A layer of dust can block sunlight and stunt growth, making regular cleaning a vital part of your plant care routine. Discover the simple, effective methods for how do you clean aloe leaves safely.

Over 200 species belong to the genus Kalanchoe, many of which are popular ornamental houseplants, but almost all contain potent toxins. This means you should never eat Kalanchoe leaves, as they can cause significant gastrointestinal and cardiac problems in humans and pets.

Native to South Africa, the elephant bush (Portulacaria afra) is a popular, drought-tolerant succulent with remarkable carbon-absorbing abilities. Many succulent enthusiasts and pet owners often wonder, "is the elephant bush toxic?" This confusion, primarily stemming from its resemblance to the toxic jade plant, is a common misconception that needs to be cleared up.

Aloe vera gel contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, but its potent benefits quickly diminish once exposed to air. Learning how to keep aloe fresh after cutting is essential for retaining its therapeutic properties for medicinal or cosmetic use.

While some succulents, like certain *Euphorbia* species, are highly toxic and should never be consumed, the common *Sempervivum* (hens and chicks) is generally regarded as edible in small, controlled quantities. This article explores the edibility of *Sempervivum*, its potential nutritional aspects, and the crucial safety considerations for anyone contemplating adding this garden succulent to their diet.

While Kalanchoe is a stunning ornamental succulent, it contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides that make it toxic if ingested by humans or animals. This makes it a houseplant to admire for its beauty, not to consume.