Tag: Succulents

Spekboom (Portulacaria afra), also known as "elephant bush," is a carbon-absorbing wonder plant that is also safe for human consumption. This versatile succulent, native to Southern Africa, offers a zesty, lemony flavor and is packed with Vitamin C. However, while safe, it should be consumed in moderation due to its natural acidity and oxalate content.

While Aloe vera is a well-known succulent with edible gel, its relative, *Aloe arborescens*, contains significantly higher concentrations of the bitter compound aloin in its latex, which can be toxic and is not recommended for consumption. It is crucial to understand the risks before considering any internal use of this plant.

Approximately 75 aloe species exist, but only a few are safe for consumption, which makes proper identification essential. Some types can cause severe illness if ingested.

Native to the Western and Eastern Cape of South Africa, the plant known as Hotnotsvy, or Hottentot fig, has been used for centuries by the indigenous Khoi people for its extensive medicinal and culinary properties. The plant is a robust, creeping succulent with fleshy leaves and vibrant yellow or purple flowers, and is also widely recognized as the sour fig.

According to a 2011 study, having plants in an office can improve concentration and attention. While often prized for their low-maintenance nature and aesthetic appeal, many wonder: do succulents have any health benefits beyond simple decoration? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, involving both proven psychological perks and dispelled air-purifying myths.

Native to South Africa, the elephant bush, scientifically known as *Portulacaria afra*, is widely consumed in its native region, where its leaves are celebrated for their distinctive tart flavor. This succulent, which is a staple food for elephants and other herbivores, is also a nutritious and safe addition to human diets when properly identified. It is important to distinguish it from the toxic jade plant, which it can be mistaken for.

While aloe vera is widely known for its soothing gel, not all species are safe for consumption. Knowing how to tell if your aloe vera plant is edible is crucial to avoid potential health risks from toxic varieties and to ensure you are harvesting the correct gel for internal use.

Indigenous cultures have consumed cactus for over 12,000 years, proving that yes, some cactus is really edible and has a long history as a food source. While the thought of eating a spiky plant may seem unusual, many varieties offer a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet.

Despite its status as a popular and resilient houseplant, all parts of the jade plant (Crassula ovata) are considered toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The idea that we can eat jade plant leaves is a common misconception, but attempting to do so can cause unpleasant and potentially harmful side effects.

According to research by New York State University, the popular jade plant can absorb harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like acetone and toluene, showcasing a key benefit of jade leaf for improving indoor air quality. This evergreen succulent offers a range of aesthetic, health, and symbolic advantages that make it a favorite for homes and offices.