Haworthia plants are not only easy to care for but also incredibly beautiful. With a wide variety of shapes and colors, these succulents are a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the most stunning species of Haworthia and provide essential tips for their care.
Their white pattern has given many species of Haworthia the nickname zebra succulent [Photo: fon.tepsoda/ Shutterstock.com]
Haworthia: Flowering, Origin, and Characteristics
Haworthia plants belong to the genus Haworthia and are native to South Africa and southern Namibia. These desert-loving plants thrive in dry regions, often in rocky areas or under the shade of other plants. They have a slow growth rate and maintain a small size even when mature. The diameter of their rosette-like shape can range from 2 to 15cm, depending on the species.
Similar to Aloe vera, Haworthia is a succulent. These plants have sap-rich shoots or leaves that allow them to survive in regions with limited rainfall. Both Haworthias and Aloes belong to the grass family (Xanthorrhoeaceae) and the subfamily asphodel (Asphodeloideae). The main difference lies in their flowers, although Haworthia flowers may not always appear in houseplants. Haworthia flowers are typically white to pale pink, while Aloe flowers are reddish or orange and arranged in clusters. Additionally, Haworthia plants have smooth leaf edges, while Aloe plants are larger and have small teeth on their leaves.
Haworthias have a wide variety of shapes and colors [Photo: De19/ Shutterstock.com]
The Most Beautiful Haworthia Species
The genus Haworthia offers over 160 different species, providing a wide array of forms for plant lovers. All Haworthia species are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Due to their small size, they can be kept together in a larger container. The main variations among the species are found in leaf shape, patterning, and green coloring.
- Haworthia fasciata: This succulent variety features upright green leaves adorned with small, pearly white warts or spots, giving it a decorative appearance. It can grow up to 18cm tall, with slightly curved inward leaves.
Haworthia fasciata with its typical pattern [Photo: InkHeart/ Shutterstock.com]
- Haworthia cooperi: Commonly known as cushion Haworthia, this species has small, roundish leaves in blue-green or reddish shades. The leaves may appear slightly translucent, and it reaches a diameter of about 12cm.
Haworthia cooperi with partially translucent leaves [Photo: Spot on the desktop/ Shutterstock.com]
- Haworthia limifolia: In this variety, the leaves’ structural pattern makes it particularly popular. The rib-like, three-dimensional structure can be white, while the leaves themselves are green to brownish-green. The plant can have a diameter of up to 7cm.
Haworthia limifolia is mostly patterned green on green [Photo: Little daisy/ Shutterstock.com]
- Haworthia attenuata: Similar to Haworthia fasciata, this variety also has a white pattern on its green leaves, made up of more or less white dots. The ridges on the leaves, which can grow up to 13cm long, give them a rough surface. This Haworthia is also known as zebra cactus or zebra plant due to its striped pattern.
Haworthia attenuata and Haworthia fasciata are also known as zebra Haworthia [Photo: shinoportogis/ Shutterstock.com]
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Haworthia pentagona: This variety has a simple and plain appearance, with leaves that showcase a beautifully rich green color and no white pattern.
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Haworthia retusa: The leaves of this Haworthia have a rounded-triangular shape and may have lines or window-like translucent structures. The leaf color is brownish green.
Triangular leaf ends are typical of Haworthia retusa [Photo: Furiarossa/ Shutterstock.com]
- Haworthia truncata: The leaves of Haworthia truncata appear as though they have been abruptly cut off, distinguishing them from other Haworthia varieties. The grey-green leaf surface is adorned with small warts.
The seemingly cut leaves give Haworthia truncata an unusual appearance [Photo: joesayhello/ Shutterstock.com]
Soil and Location
As Haworthia plants hail from arid environments, they do not require frequent watering. They appreciate moderate humidity during summer and prefer drier conditions in winter. Use a pot with drainage holes to ensure proper water drainage. The ideal growing medium for Haworthia is structurally stable and has high mineral content. Special succulent soil or a mix of cactus soil, pumice gravel, and quartz sand works well. You can also create your own cactus soil using peat-free options such as Plantura Organic All Purpose Compost. Adding a layer of broken clay or pebbles at the pot’s bottom will prevent water buildup.
Haworthias love dry, mineral soil [Photo: Omkoi/ Shutterstock.com]
Place your Haworthia in a bright location away from direct sunlight. East or west-facing windowsills are ideal. During summer, you can also move the plant outdoors to a partially shaded spot. In winter, Haworthia prefers temperatures slightly above 10°C, while in summer, it thrives in temperatures between 15 and 25°C.
Haworthia plants have moderate nutrient requirements, so fertilization is rarely necessary. White, dark red, or yellow leaves may indicate excessive light exposure, while a fading green color suggests a lack of light.
The flower of a Haworthia can look like this [Photo: Kallyana/ Shutterstock.com]
Haworthia Care: Top Tips
The key to caring for Haworthia plants is to remember that “less is more.” Avoid overwatering and ensure the soil is not waterlogged. Instead of pouring water directly onto the plant, water the soil and let it dry out before watering again. In summer, watering once a week should suffice, while in winter, watering every few months will be enough.
Haworthia plants require minimal fertilization. A small amount of natural all-purpose fertilizer, such as Plantura All Purpose Plant Food, can support healthy growth. Mix the pellets into the soil during repotting, ensuring slow and prolonged nutrient release. Alternatively, weak cactus fertilizers can also be used. Fertilize only during the main growth period in summer.
Regular repotting provides Haworthia plants with sufficient nutrients. Repotting does not necessarily require a new pot; replacing the soil is usually enough. Do this every two to three years in spring or early summer, at the beginning of the main growing season. Remove any brown or dead leaves during repotting. This is also an opportunity to propagate Haworthia plants. In summer, placing the plant outside in partial shade increases the chances of flowering. Gradually acclimate the plant to direct light to prevent sunburn.
Pruning is generally unnecessary for this small houseplant, except for propagating or removing dead leaves.
When the Haworthia gets too cramped, it is time for a bigger pot [Photo: New Africa/ Shutterstock.com]
Propagating Haworthia: How to Do It
Haworthia plants can be propagated through offshoots or leaf cuttings.
Propagating Haworthia from Offshoots:
Offshoots are often formed by the succulent plant and can be easily propagated. During repotting in spring, the offshoots may already have developed roots. Simply separate them from the mother plant and plant them in a separate pot with suitable soil. If the offshoots have no roots yet, let them dry out for a few days before planting.
Propagating Haworthia from Cuttings:
Propagating Haworthia from leaf cuttings is a slightly trickier method that may not always be successful. To propagate from cuttings, cut a leaf from the mother plant using a sharp knife and let it dry for about three days. Then place the cutting, with the cut surface facing downwards, into the soil used for the mother plant. Keep the potted leaf cutting in a bright, warm location and ensure the soil remains moist. Once roots have formed, you can care for the new plant as usual.
Many Haworthias form offshoots that can be used for propagation [Photo: JulieK2/ Shutterstock.com]
Is Haworthia Poisonous?
You can rest assured that Haworthia plants are not poisonous to humans or animals. The liquid excreted when the leaves are cut off is merely stored water that the plant naturally uses during long periods of drought.
Aloe vera and its relatives are also low-maintenance succulents that make great houseplants. Check out our overview of the most beautiful Aloe species.
Now that you have a better understanding of Haworthia care, you can enjoy these stunning succulents in your home with confidence. Happy gardening!
