Rare in the wild, common in cultivation
Aloe jucunda
Family: Asphodelaceae
Conservation status: Critically Endangered
Aloe jucunda is a succulent that grows primarily in the dry shrublands and deserts of Northern Somalia. Its deteriorating habitat and severely restricted range–which is limited to the limestone portions of the Gaan Libah plateau–contribute to its critically endangered conservation status.
This species is characterized by small leaves, usually less than two inches long. Leaves are triangular, glossy, dark green flecked with paler green spots, and are toothed along the margins. The leaves contrast with the coral pink or light salmon flowers borne on foot-tall inflorescences.
Despite being rare in the wild, Aloe jucunda is very common in cultivation and used in its native range to treat wounds, burns, and digestive problems.