To understand where I will thrive in your home, you must first understand where I come from. My ancestors are from the arid, sun-drenched regions of the Arabian Peninsula. This means I am biologically designed for conditions that many other houseplants would find harsh: intense, bright light, infrequent water, and well-draining soil that never stays soggy. My thick, fleshy leaves are not just for show; they are water storage organs, allowing me to withstand long periods of drought. Therefore, the best location for me will be one that most closely mimics these natural conditions.
Light is my primary source of energy. I require abundant, bright, indirect light to grow strong and maintain my structural integrity. A south or west-facing window is ideal, as it provides the duration and intensity of light I crave. Here, I can perform photosynthesis efficiently, which keeps my leaves firm and a healthy green color. If I do not receive enough light, I will begin to etiolate—a process where I stretch out awkwardly, becoming leggy and pale as I desperately reach for a light source. My growth will be weak, and my leaves may become floppy and thin. While I can tolerate some direct sun, particularly the gentle morning sun from an east window, the intense, scorching afternoon sun through a glass pane can actually burn my leaves, leaving unsightly brown spots.
I prefer a comfortable room temperature, similar to what you find pleasant. A consistent range between 55°F (13°C) and 80°F (27°C) is perfect. I am highly sensitive to frost, so I must be kept away from drafty windows or doors during freezing winters, as cold drafts can cause significant cellular damage to my leaves. However, I also appreciate good air circulation. Stagnant, stuffy air can encourage fungal growth and pest infestations. A location with gentle, natural airflow (but not a direct, cold draft) helps keep my environment healthy and prevents moisture from lingering on my soil surface for too long after watering.
My relationship with water is the most common point of failure in our relationship. My roots are highly susceptible to rot if left sitting in moist soil. Therefore, my location must work in harmony with your watering habits. Placing me in a dark bathroom or a humid kitchen, for example, drastically reduces the rate at which my soil dries out, creating a dangerous environment for root rot. I have no need for high humidity; average household humidity is absolutely fine. In fact, a drier environment is safer for me. The best spot is one where the soil can dry out completely between waterings, a process that happens fastest in a bright, warm room.
