Aloe Turning Purple: Causes, Solutions, and Care Tips

Introduction

Aloe vera turning purple may be stress, sunlight, or even just its natural lifecycle. You need to know about why your aloe turned purple and how to ensure it thrives.

Why Is My Aloe Plant Turning Purple?

Aloe vera's typical jade hue is sourced from a cocktail of chlorophyll and carotenoids, essential for photosynthesis. But when the plant dons a purple tinge, we can blame a different pigment entirely: anthocyanin.

Normally associated with fall foliage in temperate climates, anthocyanin offers plants a protective role. It shielding them from excessive sunlight, cold, and even potential predators.

In the case of aloe, a combination of environmental stresses can provoke heightened anthocyanin production. For example, environmental stress, sunlight exposure, and temperature fluctuations. The leaves exhibiting gradients from faint lavender to deep purple, particularly at the leaf margins.

Environmental Stressors

Extreme Temperatures

An environment with fluctuating or extreme temperatures can lead to a aloe plant turning purple. Prolonged exposure to heat or cold beyond the plant's tolerance can disrupt normal cell functions and the balance of nutrients.

Protecting aloe from drafts and providing insulation against the cold. Keeping it out of direct midday sun to avoid heat damage.

Inadequate Sunlight

While aloe can often endure suboptimal lighting conditions, consistently insufficient sunlight can prompt the plant to start turning purple. The reduced sunlight limits the production of chlorophyll. So anthocyanin might step in to fill the void.

If you've noticed aloe vera plant turning purple, consider moving your aloe to a sunnier spot. But do it gradually to avoid sunburn.

Overwatering

One of the most common mistakes gardeners make with aloe is overwatering. In the wild, aloe's natural habitats experience infrequent, heavy rains. Consistently damp soil can lead to root rot. This in turn starves the plant of nutrients and oxygen.

The disruption in the balance of water and nutrients is yet another trigger for anthocyanin production. You should adjust your watering schedule. Only water when the soil is fully dry. This can often help a purple aloe return to green.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Common Nutritional Deficiencies

Commonly termed the "central atom of chlorophyll," magnesium is essential for aloe's green pigment and the process of photosynthesis. When magnesium levels are insufficient, chlorophyll production decreases. This causes the green color to fade, and purple hues to dominate. Signs of magnesium deficiency include yellowing of leaves and slower growth.

Phosphorus plays a pivotal role in aloe's energy transfer and root development. Plants starved of phosphorus may exhibit purpling due to a reduction in the synthesis of various pigments. Watch for stunted growth and a delay in flowering. This can be indicative of phosphorus deficiency.

Identifying Symptoms of Nutrient Deficiencies

The first step in remedying aloe turning purple is to accurately diagnose the issue. Symptoms may manifest as a uniform purple cast across the leaves or as splotches and streaks. Additionally, a check for stunted growth and an odd leaf texture can further corroborate the presence of a deficiency.

Adjusting Fertilizer Application

Select a fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) ratio designed for succulents. Begin by applying it at half strength and monitor the aloe's response. Gradually increase the concentration over time as the plant stabilizes.

Soil Amendments

Introduce organic matter to the aloe's soil to enrich it. For example, compost. This will enhance the soil structure and bolster the aloe's access to vital elements.

Common Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

Spider Mites are tiny arachnids which spin fine webbing across the leaves of your aloe. They suck the juices from them. This feeding can severely disable the plant’s ability to produce chlorophyll and may lead to a purplish hue.

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects. They excrete a sugary substance which can lead to the growth of sooty mold. These mold disrupts the plant's light absorption. This can lead to issues with the chlorophyll balance.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can cause leaves to discolor. For example, root rot from overwatering. You plants are often with a speckled or spotted pattern. The plant's response to fight the infection can again lead to aloe vera turning purple.

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent these infestations and diseases, you should periodically inspect your aloe plant. Keep a consistent watering and light schedule. If necessary, place a humidifier nearby in drier climates.

For pest prevention, you can use natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soaps. If a fungal issue is identified, you may need to repot your aloe. Use fresh, well-draining soil after trimming the affected roots.

Conclusion

By understanding the various reasons behind aloe turning purple, you can better address the root cause of the issue. With this guidance, you'll be well on your way to fostering a healthy aloe vera plant once more.