Botanical Name:

Aloe vera

Common Name:

True aloe, Mediterranean aloe

Genus:

Aloe

Will it survive Kuwait’s summer or is it just seasonal?

Will survive Kuwait’s summer

Description:

Aloe vera is an evergreen succulent species native to the Arabian Peninsula. The thick leaves are filled with a gooey flesh that stores water for survival in its native desert territories. It has a wide range of cosmetics and skin-care products. Aloe vera is commonly known as a topical gel used to treat sunburn. Promisingly, it may also provide other health benefits, largely due to its antioxidant properties. Preliminary research has indicated that aloe vera may benefit your skin, dental, oral, and digestive health. It may even improve blood sugar control.

Tips for Planting and Watering Needs:

Plant in partial to full sun during the mid to late September when the highest temperature reaches 35 °C. Water once daily during early winter. During the colder days of winter, you could water once every two to three days. Make sure not to water when there is rain. During early summer water once a day, while during the hotter days of summer water twice daily in the early morning, preferably before sun rise, and after sun set. Soil should dry completely between watering. The top third portion of the soil should dry completely between watering.

Characteristics

Plant Type: Succulent

Lifespan: Perennial

Bloom Time: Summer

Plant Height: 0.2 m to 1 m

Spread: 0.2 m to 0.5 m

Difficulty Rating: Easy

Sunlight: Partial to full sun

Care Guide

Fertilization: Once in March.

Pruning: Trim diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Planting Time: September to January (the closer to September the better)

Will it live in a pot? Yes, it needs excellent drainage and a good growing medium. It could also be grown indoor, but it needs to be facing a south window, with bright indirect sunlight. If grown indoor, water once every three to four weeks (once the top third of the pot is dry).