Aloe esculenta

Plants of A. esculenta are often used in Ovamboland to form rows of natural fences around kraals and gardens, as the thorns provide a suitable deterrent for any potential intruders. Their main distribution areas are the north-central areas of the country, from Ruacana in the western reaches of the Kavango region. Locally, leaves of this plant are called 'mandopo' which are often placed in the drinking water of cattle to act as a cure against tick infections.

Leaves of this species are often confused with those of A. littoralis although more greyish/green in colour whilst growing and not as straight once matured. Flowers vary in colour from light to deep pink, blooming in their thousands between July and August. White leaf spots are permanent.