Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’ is a visually striking succulent, captivating plant enthusiasts with its vibrant coloration and unique form. This hybrid earns its whimsical name from the intense purple and reddish hues that develop on its foliage under specific growing conditions. It offers a distinctive aesthetic for those seeking an unusual yet beautiful addition to their plant collection.
Distinctive Appearance and Origin
Its leaves display a remarkable range of pale to deep purple and lavender shades, often with red dots, margins, or a fringe-like texture. These vibrant colors intensify significantly when exposed to bright sunlight and cooler temperatures. The plant forms compact clumps of rosettes, growing to about 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide at maturity.
This aloe is a hybrid, a result of careful breeding programs. Developed in California, its seed parent is Aloe ‘Lavender Star’, and its pollen parent is a cross involving Aloe divaricata, Aloe intermedia, and Aloe acutissima. While sharing similarities with Aloe ‘Lavender Star’, it is larger, brighter, and has a more even growth habit.
Cultivation Essentials
Light Requirements
Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’ thrives in abundant bright light. To achieve its most intense purple coloration, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors, a south-facing window is ideal for sufficient light. Insufficient light causes the plant to lose its vibrant purple hues, reverting to green, and may lead to etiolation, where it stretches and becomes leggy.
Watering Techniques
Proper watering is essential for this succulent’s health. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, a common issue for aloes. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, moistening the entire root ball. During winter, watering needs decrease significantly, so reduce frequency.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is essential. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended. You can also create a suitable mix by combining equal parts of perlite, coarse sand, and potting soil to enhance drainage. Pots must have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root rot. Select a pot only slightly larger than the root ball, as larger pots can retain excessive moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
This aloe prefers warm, dry conditions. An ideal temperature range is 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 74°F), though it tolerates 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). It adapts well to typical indoor humidity and does not require additional humidity. Protect the plant from temperatures below 4°C (40°F), as it is not frost tolerant.
Fertilization
Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’ has minimal fertilization needs. During its active growing season, from May to August, a diluted succulent fertilizer can be applied every couple of months. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as it can harm the plant.
Propagation Methods
Propagating Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’ is best done through its offsets, or “pups.” These miniature plants emerge from the base of the mature plant and are genetic clones. To propagate, carefully remove the entire plant from its pot and gently separate the pups, ensuring each has some roots attached if possible. If strongly attached, use a clean knife to detach.
After separating, allow pups to “callus” in a dry, temperate place for 24 hours to a few days; this prevents rot when planted. Once callused, plant them in a well-draining succulent mix, burying roots up to just below the main crown of leaves. Leaf cuttings can also be attempted, though they have a lower success rate.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’ loses its vibrant purple color, it indicates insufficient light exposure. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight will help it regain its characteristic hues. The purple coloration is a response to environmental stress, particularly strong sun exposure.
Mushy or rotting leaves signal overwatering, leading to root rot. If this occurs, adjust watering habits by allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings and ensuring adequate drainage. For severe root rot, unpot the plant, trim affected roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Conversely, shriveled or dry leaves indicate severe underwatering or extreme heat. While aloes are drought-tolerant, prolonged dryness can cause leaves to pucker and wrinkle. Increasing watering frequency, while still allowing the soil to dry out, can remedy this. Pests like mealybugs or scale may affect Aloe ‘Purple People Eater’, though it is generally pest-resistant. Manage them by wiping them away or using an insecticidal soap solution.