Varieties
Haworthia limifolia var. spiralis f. variegata / Haworthiopsis coarctata / Haworthia fasciata / Haworthia reinwardtii 'Kaffirdriftensis'
Origin
Native to the rocky grasslands and scrublands of South Africa, Mozambique and Eswatini
General Care
Light
Bright indirect light. A north- or east-facing window, or set back from a south- or west-facing one, is ideal. Tolerates moderate light better than most succulents but will lose vigour and colour over time without sufficient brightness. Variegated forms require brighter conditions to maintain their colouration; avoid low light entirely.
Temperature
18–24°C. Keep above 10°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Humidity
Low. Tolerates dry indoor air well.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks (spring–fall). Water thoroughly and allow substrate to dry fully before watering again. Every 3–4 weeks (winter). Reduce watering during the plant's natural rest period. Water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the rosette, as trapped moisture may cause rot at the crown. Resume regular watering as temperatures rise and new growth emerges in spring. Always check moisture level before watering. Aerate mix to improve its condition.
Fertilizer
Every 4–6 weeks (spring–fall). Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer, according to packaging instructions. Do not fertilize in winter.
Maintenance
Rotate every 2–3 weeks to encourage even, symmetrical growth. Remove spent or dried leaves at the base of the rosette with sterile shears. Inspect for pests periodically, paying particular attention to the dense leaf junctions where mealybugs may congregate.
Potting and Repotting
Transplant once pot-bound. Every 2–3 years (spring), move plant into a planter 1–2" larger (diameter). Top dress annually once maximum convenient planter size is reached. A wide, shallow planter is preferred over a deep one.
Special Points/Common Problems:
- Soft, mushy or translucent leaves at the base suggest overwatering or poor drainage. Allow substrate to dry fully and improve drainage before watering again.
- Pale, washed-out or reddish foliage may indicate too much direct sun. Move to a position with bright, indirect light.
- Elongated, lax growth reaching toward the light source indicates insufficient brightness. Move to a brighter position gradually.
- Variegated forms are slower-growing than the straight species and more sensitive to low light. Ensure consistently bright, indirect conditions to maintain leaf colouration and compact form.
- Offsets may be separated and propagated individually in spring or summer. Ensure they have developed their own root systems first. Allow cut surfaces to callous for 24–48 hours before placing in substrate.