Aloe vera species identification ?

[hometuff]

Hi, this Aloe Vera belonged to my grandmother from 40 - 50 years ago, we live on long island, they are house plants in containers. and in 40 years I've had them, I have never seen them bloom.

Can someone help me with the SPECIES of Aloe Vera plant that is in this pic, it's the biggest of the plants I have--about a foot tall--They have little tiny spikes on them and little white spots on the leaves/ stalks Thanks for any help.

[Saxicola]

That Aloe vera is... Aloe vera!

Aloe is the genus, and Aloe vera is just one of around 500 species of Aloe. However, that appears to be the plant you have. That's not surprising as it is the most commonly cultivated species. It doesn't bloom for you probably because it doesn't get enough light and is too small. I only say that in relation to blooming as it seems to be healthy enough looking for a house plant.

[Rosemarie]

Aloe vera var. chinensis.

[hometuff]

Thank you very much Saxicola and Rosemarie for your responses.. Being too small was my theory too.

Rosemarie, it does look like the Aloe vera var. chinensis.--- from what limited reading I did, this is only 1 of a few genus / species of Aloe Vera that have medicinal properties ??, is this correct ?

[Rosemarie]

Yes, I believe so, Homestuff.

[Saxicola]

There are a few other medicinal Aloes like A. ferox and A. perryi, but you should only use A. vera unless you are very familiar with other Aloes. The reason is that some species are actually poisonous.