Reunion aloe

Names and Synonyms

Common Names

• Reunion aloe

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Lomatophyllum macrum
• Phylloma macrum

Regional and Traditional Names

Sources: Wikidata, Catalogue of Life

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta within the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Asparagales, falling under the family Asphodelaceae. Finally, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement in the genus Aloe.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant is characterized by a very restricted and specific geographical range. Within the vast expanse of the Western Indian Ocean, its presence is notably localized. Specifically, the species is found inhabiting the island of Réunion. This limited distribution suggests that the plant is endemic to this particular volcanic territory. Consequently, its survival is closely tied to the unique ecological conditions provided by this specific island location.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Life history

The life history of Aloe macra is characterized by its classification as a chamaephyte, a growth form where the majority of the plant's vegetative organs are situated close to the soil surface, often slightly above it. This specific life form, categorized under both the chamaephyte and nanophanerophyte frameworks, allows the species to adapt to its natural environment by maintaining its photosynthetic structures at a low profile. As a perennial succulent, its developmental cycle involves the slow accumulation of biomass through fleshy, moisture-retaining leaves, with its survival strategy centered on these low-growing structures that provide resilience against environmental stressors. The plant's lifecycle follows a pattern of seasonal growth and reproductive phases, utilizing its chamaephytic stature to optimize resource acquisition while minimizing exposure to harsh atmospheric conditions.

Life form :

chamaephyte

Morphology

The morphology of Aloe macra is characterized by a non-woody structure, lacking any significant lignification in its growth habit. It functions as a self-supporting plant, maintaining its upright position through the structural integrity of its succulent tissues without the need for external support. As a terrestrial species, it grows directly in the soil rather than inhabiting other plants, and it maintains an independent lifestyle, functioning as a non-parasitic organism that does not rely on a host for nutrients.

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

non-woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Aloe macra has 6 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Anthraquinones, Chromones, arabinose, fucose, mannose.

Anthraquinones

1. Fitoterapia

Chromones

1. Fitoterapia

arabinose

1. Fitoterapia

fucose

1. Fitoterapia

mannose

1. Fitoterapia

xylose

1. Fitoterapia

Medicinal Uses

Aloe macra has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Most Reported Uses