Where Does Aloe Vera Grow?
Aloe Vera is a succulent that can be grown in pots or the ground. It is native to the south-west Arabian Peninsula and requires low maintenance. It does not require fertilizer and is very easy to grow. Its most attractive feature is its ability to heal burns.
Native to the south-west Arabian Peninsula
The region is home to many species that are native to the area. Juniperus woodlands and remnant escarpment woodlands are particularly notable. These ecosystems are part the Eastern Afromontane Bioregion, which is home 2 000 vascular plant species and 2 endemic genera. These ecosystems are home to the majority of the endemic bird species in the southwest Arabian Peninsula, including the Tihamah plain and the Asir Mountains.
Easy to grow
Aloe vera is an easy plant to grow. It does best in a sunny location. Although you can’t grow the plant from leaf cuttings, you can propagate it by detaching clone plants from the base of an adult plant. The younger plants are best grown in a two-inch pot with a drainage hole.
Low maintenance
Aloe Vera is a low maintenance plant that doesn’t require a lot of attention. It grows well in a low-light environment and thrives when placed in indirect light. Because aloe is a succulent, it tolerates a wide range of temperatures, although it prefers a relatively warm temperature of 55-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Aloe does not require much water but it does require well-drained soil. Use a fast-draining potting mixture, such as Miracle Gro (r) Cactus Palm & Citrus Potting Mix.
No fertilizer needed
Aloe Vera is a tropical perennial found in USDA hardiness zones eight through eleven, and it can also be grown indoors. The plant’s pointed, greenish-gray, serrated edges and long, pointed leaves can grow up to 18 inches in length. The plant needs little to no fertilizer and thrives in sunny locations.
Crowding encourages insect and mold infestations
If it is exposed to high temperatures or humidity, Aloe vera can become rusty and develop other diseases. The conditions that can cause rust are 60-82 degrees Fahrenheit. Aloe rust also manifests as rotten leaves and stems and soft brown areas. Insect predation and excessive moisture are also potential causes.
Heavy frost and snow are not recommended.
Frost tolerant plants are those whose leaves will not be damaged by a heavy frost or snowfall. Frost refers to nighttime temperatures below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Hard frost is even more dangerous. A good way to protect your plants from frost is to plant them in an area where they will receive maximum winter light. Avoid planting them in areas where the wind will dry out their leaves or stems.
