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The aloe comes from subtropical areas of the world and belongs to the succulents. As such, she likes a warm and sunny spot. This text tells you how much direct sun aloe vera can actually tolerate.
In a nutshell
titleSun plant succulent
It is believed that aloe vera originally came from the Arabian Peninsula. It's warm, dry and mostly sunny there. The plant has now spread all over the world. Mostly in subtropical or tropical areas, avoiding too humid or shady places. The thick, spiky leaves identify the aloe as a succulent. With this leaf shape, the plant is able to store water over a longer period of time. In addition, the narrow, pointed shape of the leaves reduces the area and thus the effect of solar radiation. Evaporation from the leaf surface decreases.
As a houseplant
In the room, the aloe vera is quite frugal as far as its location is concerned, as long as it is bright enough. It tolerates direct sun from east or west very well. A place that is too dark, on the other hand, is not promising.
Sun or (half) shade: it doesn't matter where your aloe is, watering should always be very measured.
Notice: The darker the plant is, the less water it needs. In a shady place, the risk of root damage from overwatering is higher.
If the sun is too strong, the leaves of the aloe can turn reddish. This does not harm the plant and will disappear when the sun's rays decrease towards the end of the growing season. However, direct sun burns can occur in summer on a south-facing window where the sun shines directly at midday. Too much sun for your aloe vera can be recognized by:
- twisted leaves
- leaves that feel limp (evaporation is increased)
- brownish leaf spots
- dried leaf tips
- a plant turning gray-green
countermeasures
More frequent watering compensates for the high evaporation, but does not help the aloe vera against direct sun. Instead, it should be placed in a more shady spot around midday, or a sunshade placed on the window. A larger piece of cardboard is sufficient for this or, if available, the blinds are closed.
Aloe in the conservatory
Notice: Despite the glass, a conservatory is better suited for the aloe than the windowsill. It can be placed further away from the glass front.
Outdoors
Outside it is easier to give the plant a good place. A sunny terrace, a balcony on the south wall or a sheltered place on a south wall of the house are all places where aloe thrive magnificently. It is important that the right substrate is chosen and the plant is not in the shade of larger plants. It should also be protected from heavy rainfall. The aloe can react sensitively if there is water in its leaf rosette for a long time.
Notice: Plants should be returned indoors once temperatures are in the single digits.
frequently asked Questions
Does the aloe also have to be protected from the midday sun outside?Since it comes from very warm, dry and sunny areas, this is not necessary. The sunlight is not as direct outdoors as it is behind glass without a gap.
How much water does aloe vera need?The sunnier it is, the more water the plant needs. However, it generally likes it rather dry, so it is only poured when the substrate has dried out on the surface.
Which substrate is suitable for the desert lily?In any case, it should be transparent. Sandy to rocky soil is even better. Very loamy soil is unsuitable because it compacts quickly.
Can aloe also thrive in the shade?In the shade, the plant remains rather stunted. At most half shade is still tolerated.