Aloe rubroviolacea (Arabian Aloe)

Aloe rubroviolacea, also known as Arabian Aloe, is a captivating succulent native to the Arabian Peninsula. This plant showcases striking foliage with a unique red-violet hue, making it a stunning addition to any home or garden. In this post, I’ll delve into the essential succulent care and propagation techniques to help your Aloe rubroviolacea flourish.

How to Care for Aloe rubroviolacea

Light Requirements

Aloe rubroviolacea thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a south or west-facing window, ensuring it receives at least six hours of light daily. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the plant’s leaves.

Watering

Being a drought-tolerant succulent, Arabian Aloe prefers a well-draining soil mix and infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Typically, you’ll need to water it once every 2-3 weeks in summer and once every 4-6 weeks in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

Aloe rubroviolacea can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but thrives in conditions between 60°F and 80°F. Protect your plant from temperatures below 40°F, as it is not frost-tolerant. Moderate humidity is ideal for this succulent, so there is no need for additional humidity measures.

Summary

Aloe rubroviolacea requires bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering. Thriving in 60°F-80°F temperatures, it tolerates moderate humidity and needs protection from frost.

How to Propagate Aloe rubroviolacea

Offset Separation

One of the easiest methods to propagate Arabian Aloe is by separating offsets, or “pups,” that grow around the base of the parent plant. Gently remove the pup from the soil, ensuring it has a healthy root system. Place the offset in a well-draining soil mix, and water sparingly until new growth appears.

Leaf Cuttings

Although not as reliable as offset separation, leaf cuttings can be a viable propagation method. Choose a healthy, mature leaf and remove it with a clean, sharp knife. Allow the cutting to callous for a few days before placing it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and provide bright, indirect light. Roots should begin to develop within 3-4 weeks.

Summary

Propagate Aloe rubroviolacea through offset separation or leaf cuttings. Remove healthy offsets or leaves, allow leaf cuttings to callous, then plant in well-draining soil and provide bright, indirect light.

Fertilizing Your Aloe rubroviolacea

Feed your Aloe rubroviolacea with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once in spring and once in summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weakened roots. A slow-release granular fertilizer can also be used as an alternative.

Common Pests and Diseases

Aloe rubroviolacea is generally pest-resistant, but mealybugs and scale insects can occasionally infest the plant. Treat these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering may cause root rot, so always ensure proper drainage and allow the soil to dry between waterings. If your plant exhibits signs of rot, remove affected parts and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.

Summary

Fertilize Aloe rubroviolacea sparingly with diluted water-soluble or slow-release granular fertilizer. Manage pests like mealybugs and scale insects with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prevent root rot with proper drainage.

Where to Buy

You can buy Arabian Aloe at Etsy