Growing conditions
Aloe Sunburn
Leaf damage from too much direct sun or heat, often after an aloe is moved suddenly into a brighter spot.
Symptoms
- Leaves turning red-brown, orange or bleached pale
- Dry, crispy or papery patches on the side facing the sun
- Leaves looking thinner when the plant is also short of water
What causes it
A sudden move outdoors or to a hot, south-facing window, especially behind glass, without time to adjust.
What you can do
- Move the plant to bright, indirect light.
- Increase sun exposure gradually over one to two weeks if you want it in a sunnier spot.
- Check the soil; water thoroughly if it is bone dry.
- Damaged patches will not turn green again, but new growth will be healthy.
Not sure it's sunburn?
Photograph one affected leaf and Plantulus will suggest the most likely problem, with a confidence score. It's free and needs no sign-up.
Check a leaf photoOther aloe problems
General guidance only, not a diagnosis. Check product labels and local rules before using any treatment, and ask a horticultural specialist if a valuable plant is struggling. See the disclaimer.