What causes thunderstorms? Thunderstorms form when an air mass becomes so unstable that it overturns (convects) violently. Unstable means that the air in the lowest layers is unusually warm and humid, or that the upper layers are unusually cool, or oftentimes, both.
Aloe is the name of a plant genus that contains more than 300 species. Most of the aloe species are native to Africa, Madagascar and the Arabian Peninsula. In addition to the familiar cactus-like plant called aloe vera that many people use to soothe sunburns and other skin ailments, this genus has plants that range from grassy succulents to large trees.
Image by Janniwet. Aloe is not only a lovely succulent plant but also an excellent natural medicinal to have around the home. It is commonly grown as a house plant but a lucky few zones can grow them year around outdoors. Some varieties have a cold tolerance below 32 F. (0 C.) with a bit of protection. Growing Conditions for Aloes. Aloe plants are native to Africa and grow in many climates. There are over 400 species of aloe, with Aloe vera one of the best known. Aloe vera is not frost tolerant and cannot withstand chilling temperatures, but there are alpine varieties that have cold tolerance to nearly freezing.