Aloe vera plants are popular in many households for their medicinal properties. For thousands of years, the sticky liquid inside the succulent’s leaves has been used to treat cuts, sunburn, and various skin conditions. Drug store shelves are stocked with aloe vera ointments, gels, and creams. But one can obtain the same results by cutting a stalk and placing the liquid on the injured spot.

Perry Wellness Center is home to several of these plants, including one large plant that almost dwarfs the rest of the Hope Fountain garden area next to Rudy’s Happy Patch Market.  PWC founder and CEO Stuart Perry explains, “Some years ago, we removed many of these plants near Hope Fountain. I guess we missed one plant, and it has grown to be a spectacular show plant.”

Recently, one PWC staff member used a cutting from the plant to try the enclosed medicinal liquid. Their review: “It was nasty and slimy, but I did try it. I guess the medicinal benefits are good for those who really depend on the plant. Not me!”

To each his own. Meanwhile, the giant aloe vera plant, pictured above, continues its steady growth in the campus garden.