Haworthia is a genus of small, succulent plants that are wildly popular as indoor houseplants. These plants have been widely cultivated in Europe since the 1600s and are now popular worldwide. Haworthias are beautiful and easy to grow—even for beginners!
If you’re an experienced gardener or just starting with indoor plants, you’ll love these unique little guys.
Here’s everything you need to know about Haworthias: what they look like, how they grow (and when), their history as houseplants, and their care requirements.
- About Haworthia
- How to Identify a Haworthia?
- Haworthia Photo Gallery
- How To Care For Haworthia Plants (with Video)
- How to Propagate Haworthia
- How to Pot and Repot Haworthia
- Common Haworthia Problems
- Are Haworthia Plants Toxic?
- Popular Haworthia Types For Indoors
- Haworthia angustifolia (Narrow-leaved Haworthia)
- Haworthia arachnoidea (Cobweb Aloe)
- Haworthia bayeri
- Haworthia bolusii
- Haworthia cooperi
- Haworthia chloracantha
- Haworthia cymbiformis (Cathedral Window Haworthia)
- Haworthia decipiens (Papierrosie)
- Haworthia herbacea
- Haworthia lockwoodii (Onion-like Haworthia)
- Haworthia magnifica
- Haworthia mirabilis
- Haworthia mucronata (Glassrim Haworthia)
- Haworthia retusa (Cushion Aloe)
- Haworthia rossouwii
- Haworthia truncata (Horse’s Teeth)
- Honorable Mention: Zebra Plant (Haworthia fasciata/Haworthia attentuata)
- Differences Between Aloe and Haworthia
- What Is The Difference Between Haworthia and Haworthiopsis?
- FAQ
- References
About Haworthia
Haworthia succulent plants are endemic to South Africa. There are 60 name Haworthia types and about 150 varieties—at least. New species are being added, and the old ones are disputed as research progresses.
Haworthia species have a habit of making do with little space. They usually remain around 2-4″ even at their ultimate height. Multiple specimens can be displayed in a single, large pot or multiple small ones. The ability to display a wide variety in a small space is indispensable for the average indoor garden enthusiast.
Most varieties exhibit ground-hugging rosettes of succulent leaves. The variety and attraction are in the shape of the leaves.
Haworthia is named after Adrian Haworth (1768-1833), a world-renowned British botanist responsible for documenting the genera Mammillaria and Epiphyllum.
Main Characteristics
Botanical Name | Haworthia |
Synonyms | Apicra, Catevala |
Family | Asphodelaceae |
Type | Succulent |
Native Range | South Africa |
USDA Hardiness Zones | 9 to 11 |
Mature Size | Height: 6-8 inches; Spread: 4-6 inches |
Foliage | Evergreen |
Propagation methods | by offsets, by cuttings |
Sun | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil | Well-drained |
Toxicity | Non-Toxic |
Haworthia Taxonomy
Haworthia succulents are known for their broad appeal to the masses, and they’ve fallen into the same pitfall most popular plants do—being named by amateurs. Unfortunately, this has led to widespread misinformation and straight-up guesses about which species are a part of Haworthia.
Thankfully, recent advances in research have settled some age-old debates quite decisively, but many more remain to be resolved.
Haworthiospis and Tulista are relatively recent additions to the genus and are still in the process of being defined. However, there is little doubt that these genera exist as unique entities and will continue to be researched separately from Haworthia.
The clear delineation between these three similar genera is essential for correctly understanding how to care for your plants. Two subgroups previously classified as a part of Haworthia are no longer a part of the said genus.
Haworthia Uses
Other than looking absolutely dapper on a windowsill or brightening up a work desk, these plants don’t have much going for them—or do they?
No, that’s pretty much it. These little beauties are ornamental, to be displayed for your viewing pleasure.
How to Identify a Haworthia?
The problem with dealing with different types of Haworthia is that there are so many varieties and hybrids that it can be difficult to tell one from another. And as new species are constantly being found, the task of identifying them all becomes more daunting.
It’s essential to know the basic characteristics of Haworthias before you start trying to ID them. By understanding what these plants typically look like, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and eventually find the right plant for you.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to identify Haworthia may vary depending on the species. However, some tips on identifying Haworthia include looking at the shape of the leaves, checking for spines on the leaves and stems, and observing the color and patterning of the leaves. So, the next time you visit your local succulent plant nurseries, you’ll be well-informed.
Leaves
Look for a rosette of succulent leaves. This is the most identifying feature of these plants. They are usually thick, succulent, and arranged in tight rosettes that remain low to the ground.
Haworthias typically have pointy, triangular leaves. But there are many different types of leaves, so don’t rule out a plant just because its leaves are a different shape.
Many types of Haworthia have white or translucent stripes on their leaves. This is another crucial identifying feature.
Some species (like Haworthia attenuata) have window panes—translucent areas on the leaves that allow you to see through to the other side.
They’re pretty similar to Aloe plants, and Haworthia generally look like miniature versions of large Aloes.
Spines
Another way to identify Haworthia is by checking for spines on the leaves and stems. These succulent plants usually don’t have spines on the leaf margins.
What they do have are small, short white bristles.
Color and Patterning
The color and patterning of the leaves can also help identify Haworthia. The leaves are usually a dull green, but they sometimes have a reddish or brownish tint. Their leaves are known to change color with the changing of the seasons. They may also be stripped with white, yellow, or brown markings.
Flowers
Haworthia is known for its small, white, or pale pink flowers. They are usually borne on a slender stalk that rises above the rosette of leaves, emerging from the center. The flowers are small and insignificant and add little value to the overall aesthetic of these succulent plants, but they can be helpful identifiers if all else fails.
Haworthia Photo Gallery
Below you’ll find pictures of the most common Haworthia types you’ll run across when browsing your local garden store.
How To Care For Haworthia Plants (with Video)
When it comes to Haworthia, the good news is that these plants are relatively easy to take care of. They’re not picky about soil type and only need to be watered every few weeks. As long you’re careful about excess soil moisture, you’re golden. In addition, Haworthia types are generally considered beginner-friendly plants. They forgive neglect and are easily manageable.
Watch this video with tips on how to grow and care for Haworthia:
Light
Haworthia species do best in bright light with some partial shade. They can tolerate some direct sun, but too much will cause the leaves to turn red or brown. Partial shade is what these mini succulents are adapted to; leave the scorching sunlight to their bigger succulent brethren.
Soil
Haworthia species are not picky about growing conditions and will do fine if provided with fresh soil. However, a well-draining mix is always best to prevent root rot.
You can even make your own succulent potting mix at home with some sand, gravel, and potting soil. Repot every few years to reintroduce fresh soil and keep your growth conditions nutrient-rich.
Water
Depending on how fast-draining your soil is, you might need to water every week or every few weeks. Check the dryness level of the soil with your finger, and only begin a new watering session after you’re sure it’s completely dry. A waiting period of about one week is considered the minimum time needed between sessions.
Maintain this routine throughout the summer. But, as the colder months approach, lessen the watering frequency to the bare minimum—just enough to get the soil slightly moist and then nothing at all. Increase the waiting period between sessions to a month.
Overwatering is the number one killer of Haworthia. Err on the side of too little water rather than too much.
Temperature
These plants are endemic to South Africa and are adapted to survive in warmer temperatures. 75-90°F is the ideal range, but they can survive low 40s (Fahrenheit) for short periods.
As long as the soil is completely dry, they may survive below-freezing temperatures for short periods. But, best not to tempt fate; keep your plants in a temperature-regulated room in the winter.
Fertilizer
Haworthia plants are not heavy feeders and only need to be fertilized once a year. Use a succulent fertilizer or a half-strength all-purpose fertilizer. If you’re hesitant, there is no need to force yourself to buy feed; these succulents do just fine without it.
Overwintering
If you ease up with your watering routine and don’t let your plants sit in water, your plants should be fine. However, if you live in an area with particularly cold winters, you may want to bring your plants indoors to overwinter them. This will prevent them from getting too cold and ensure they don’t freeze from the inside out.
How to Propagate Haworthia
Haworthia can be propagated by offsets, leaf cuttings, or seeds.
Offsets
Most Haworthia produce offsets or “pups.” These are smaller versions of the parent plant that emerges from the base. Usually, these offsets naturally separate from the parents and can be repotted into their own individual pots just by pulling them up by the roots. But, sometimes, you might have to make a cut to separate a pup from its parent.
Either way, these offsets provide the safest and most common way for gardeners to propagate their tiny succulents. Just remember to allow the wounds of the cuts to air dry for a few days before planting them in new soil.
Leaf Cuttings
Another way to propagate these succulents is through leaf cuttings. This involves taking a clean, sharp knife and slicing off a leaf from the main plant. Once you have your leaf cutting, allow the wound to air dry for a few days before placing it on well-draining soil.
Some gardeners will place the leaf directly on the soil, while others insert it only halfway. Others will wait until roots have developed before planting them in potting mix. No matter which method you choose, make sure to keep the soil moist but not wet until new growth appears.
Seeds
Like most plants, Haworthia can be propagated by seed; however, this is considered the more difficult route. Collecting seeds from these plants can be tricky and is often only done by professional growers as you need several specimens of the same species to be even feasible.
But, if you manage to get your hands on some seeds from your local garden center, you can try your hand at it. Once you have your seeds, sow them in a pot filled with well-draining soil and place them in a warm, sunny spot. Water as needed to keep the soil moist but not wet.
It can take only a couple of weeks for new growth to appear, so be patient; results are just around the corner. When seedlings do eventually appear, they need to be repotted into individual pots when they are big enough. The time required to get established varies from species to species.
How to Pot and Repot Haworthia
Here’s what you need to remember when it comes to potting and repotting:
For one, the soil mix you use is vital. A good mix is one that drains well but also retains some moisture. You can mix your own or get a premade succulent mix from your local nursery. Just be sure to avoid mixes that contain too much sand.
Clay pots work best, but plastic and ceramic can also get the job done. It’s just that clay pots drain better as they allow the moisture to leave through the walls. The size of the pot varies from species to species.
Larger root systems require deeper pots. Consult the relevant information regarding your choice of species and pick a size accordingly. Though generally, these are small plants preferring shallow pots.
Another thing to remember is that Haworthias are slow-growing plants. So, they don’t need to be repotted often; once every two to three years should suffice.
When you do repot, only move the plant up one pot size. A pot that’s too large will hold too much moisture and can lead to root rot.
Lastly, the time of year you repot is important. Spring is the best time as the plant is coming out of its winter dormancy and is actively growing. During this time of year, repotting will help the plant recover from any damage caused by the transplanting process.
Common Haworthia Problems
One of the most common problems with Haworthia is root rot. This is usually caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. If you think your plant has root rot, remove it from the pot and check the roots. If they’re mushy or black, you will need to cut away the affected roots and replant them in dry, well-draining soil.
Mealybugs are another common problem with Haworthia. These tiny pests suck the sap from the plant’s body and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Mealybugs are white, fuzzy insects that congregate on the stems and leaves of plants. If you see them on your Haworthia, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Are Haworthia Plants Toxic?
Haworthia plants are not considered to be toxic to humans or animals. However, as with all plants, it is always best to err on the side of caution and keep them out of reach of small children and pets who might mistake them for a snack.
Popular Haworthia Types For Indoors
Haworthia angustifolia (Narrow-leaved Haworthia)
The Haworthia angustifolia is a small Haworthia native to South Africa. It’s called Narrow-leaved Haworthia due to the narrow shape of its leaves.
This Haworthia has long, thin dark green leaves. It’s often confused with Haworthia chloracantha, but there are slight differences. Mainly, this species has smaller and less pronounced marginal teeth that are more closely spaced.
This slow-growing plant only reaches about 4 inches (10 cm) tall. Its leaf rosettes exhibit a mat-forming habit. The flowers are white and borne on long, thin stalks. They appear in the spring, blooming for several weeks at a time.
- Mature Size: 4 inches long, 4 inches wide
- Hardiness: -5°C or 23°F
Haworthia arachnoidea (Cobweb Aloe)
The Haworthia arachnoidea, or Cobweb Aloe, is one of the more popular species of Haworthia due to its distinctively patterned leaves. The leaves are bordered with white web-like filaments that can cover the plant entirely in mature specimens. In cultivation, it’s best to keep these white threads short to retain the plant’s beauty.
Haworthia arachnoidea is often confused with Haworthia decipiens which populate the eastern portion of the Great Karoo, where both these species are endemic. Telling the difference between these two Haworthia types is a matter of expertise. However, there are some tells.
H. decipiens has shorter, wider, and flatter leaves. But an amateur might confuse it with a young specimen of H. arachnoidea that hasn’t fully developed. Therefore, the best way to tell the difference between these two Haworthia types is by the transparency of their leaves. H. decipiens have leaves with transparent tips, whereas H. arachnoidea doesn’t.
H. arachnoidea has seven varieties.
- Mature Size: 7 inches in diameter
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia bayeri
Haworthia bayeri is a small succulent that forms rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves. The leaves are dark green with white stripes (not spots) that run vertically along the leaf surface. These markings give the plant a beautiful yet distinct appearance.
These retuse leaves form a lovely yet compact rosette that stays low to the ground. As a result, this species is highly sought after in cultivation.
The flowers of Haworthia bayeri are white and borne on thin stalks. They appear in the spring and summer, blooming for several weeks at a time.
Previously Hawothia bayeri was classified as a subspecies of Hawothia emelyae. But recent studies have placed it firmly on its own.
- Mature Size: 1-2 inches tall, 4 inches (or more) spread
- Hardiness: -5°C or 23°F
Haworthia bolusii
Haworthia bolusii is a small stemless succulent that forms rosettes of fleshy, light green leaves. This Haworthia is closely related to H. decipiens and has a similar appearance.
Soft, white hairs cover the margins of the leaves. Light green leaves contrast beautifully with the white hairs. This coloration shines when the plant is in a small pot and the center of attention. Longitudinal lines of dark green markings appear on the leaves to give them some character.
Offset form slowly and serve as the primary means for propagation.
- Mature Size: 3.2 inches in diameter
- Hardiness: -0°C or 32°F
Haworthia cooperi
The Haworthia cooperi is a small Haworthia that originates from the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. H. cooperi has small, fleshy, light green leaves. The top portions of the leaves are transparent, allowing bright light to shine through.
The leaves are variegated with slightly indistinct black lines that travel vertically up the leaves. They become more apparent when sunlight filters through. Short, soft bristles dot the margins of the leaves; they serve as easy identifiers for this species.
Small, low-growing rosettes look particularly striking in small pots under direct bright light. Showcasing the leaves’ transparency is key to getting the most out of this tiny succulent aesthetically.
- Mature Size: 2 inches
- Hardiness: 4°C or 40°F
Haworthia chloracantha
As previously mentioned, Haworthia chloracantha has significant similarities with H. angustifolia. In fact, the two species were once considered to be one and the same. However, there are a few key differences that help distinguish them.
An easy identifier is in the shape of the leaves. H. angustifolia has much thinner, spindly leaves compared to Haworthia chloracantha, whose leaves exhibit a degree of girth. They’re also slightly darker in color, ranging from green to dark green, whereas H. chloracantha‘s leaves are a light green color.
Both species form similar types of stemless rosettes, which is why they are sometimes confused with each other. H. chloracantha also stands apart from its cousins owing to the dark center of their rosettes. However, this burst of color is mainly hidden under the foliage, and you must dig through to get a peek.
- Mature Size: 4 inches diameter
- Hardiness: -4°C or 25°F
Haworthia cymbiformis (Cathedral Window Haworthia)
The Haworthia cymbiformis, also known as the Cathedral Window Haworthia, is a succulent native to South Africa. It gets its common name from its thick, fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette pattern. The leaves are translucent and have a window-like appearance, hence the name.
The leaves are less transparent than H. cooperi, but in bright light, you can see the insides become illuminated. H. cymbiformis is also called boat-formed Haworthia because its leaves form distinct, incurved slopes that cup the insides of the rosette-like upturned boats.
The light that passes through the translucent tips filters green, which is why this plant has earned the name: Cathedral Window.
- Mature Size: 3-4 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia decipiens (Papierrosie)
The Haworthia decipiens, also known as the Papierrosie, is a small succulent native to South Africa. It’s one of the most challenging Haworthia types to identify because of the vast variations between specimens.
In general, this succulent looks similar to H. arachnoidea, which we’ve mentioned previously. It has a similar growth habit, with bristles growing out of the leaf margins. But, it can be differentiated by its shorter, flatter, and broader leaves.
There is also a hint of transparency that you have to look for to find out. Its rosette can be tight or loose, light green or dark green, covered entirely in bristles or without a hint of hairs. So it’s easy to see why it was named decipiens (deceptive).
- Mature Size: 3-5 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia herbacea
The Haworthia herbacea is a small, rosette-forming succulent that is endemic to the Cape Province of South Africa. It has a very similar appearance to H. reticulata, but it is tough to tell the difference between the two.
It forms rosettes of fleshy, dark green leaves with white spots. Young plants have fewer spots, which aren’t raised very high. As the plant matures, the spots become more and more prominent and appear on both sides of the leaves.
This species is also known to exhibit a shallow sort of transparency. Distinct, white bristles cover the margins and form a striking contrast to the greens of the leaves. The flowers are white with a pinkish tint and borne on slender stalks.
- Mature Size: 2 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia lockwoodii (Onion-like Haworthia)
This is one of the most interesting Haworthia types and definitely unique in its genus. In the wet season, the leaves look normal; light green and translucent with dark green longitudinal lines visible when the light shines through. Typical Haworthia behavior, nothing extraordinary.
But, come summer, when the harsh sun shines directly on the leaves, they crumple and dry out. They lose their turgidity completely and become dried-out husks of what they once were. This only happens to the outer layer of leaves, and as a result, this outer layer naturally curves inwards and forms a sort of cocoon that surrounds the inner leaves, protecting them from the sun.
This behavior is also what their common name refers to. When dry, the rosettes look strikingly similar to an unpeeled onion. A true wonder of nature.
- Mature Size: 4 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia magnifica
Haworthia magnifica is among the most extensive Haworthia types there are. It reaches up to 16 inches in height, albeit slowly. Unfortunately, the specimens in the species are highly variable and unpredictable, making identification quite hard.
The triangular leaves are usually a brown-green color though they can be more completely green or completely brown. Longitudinal lines run through the leaves’ semi-translucent surface.
H. magnifica is a ‘retuse’ Haworthia type. Like H. retusa and H. bayeri, the leaves of the rosettes appear flush with the ground when found in the wild. This effect is achieved by the leaves curving out with a bulge in the middle, presenting a flat surface to the sky. Retuse Haworthia types are highly sought after.
- Mature Size: 16 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia mirabilis
The Haworthia mirabilis is a small, stemless, rosette-forming succulent plant that changes its color in the sun. It is endemic to South Africa.
The triangular leaves of the Haworthia mirabilis are its most notable feature. They are thick and fleshy, with longitudinal lines that are surprisingly opaque. They grow in a rosette pattern and can be either green or brown. The leaf margins are often serrated, giving them a saw-like appearance.
This is one of the few Haworthia that has teeth on the margins. Like H. magnifica and H. retusa, this is one of the retuse Haworthia types. This species is highly variable.
- Mature Size: 18 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia mucronata (Glassrim Haworthia)
Glassrim Haworthia is another member of the Haworthia genus that has translucent leaves. It’s a small plant, only reaching heights of around 4 inches (10 cm). The leaves are slightly curved (inwards) and have pointy tips. The leaves’ sides and keel are translucent and often covered in soft spines or bristles.
It is often confused with H. cooperi because of its soft green color and translucent leaves. However, it can be differentiated from the size of its leaves which are much lengthier and shoot straight up. In contrast, H. cooperi’s leaves remain closer to the ground.
The translucent leaves of this plant allow sunlight to pass through them, giving them a glowing effect. This makes for an eye-catching addition to any succulent collection.
- Mature Size: 5 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia retusa (Cushion Aloe)
The Haworthia retusa, or Cushion Aloe, is a small succulent native to South Africa. It gets its common name from its growth habit: it forms cushions of thick, fleshy leaves that store water. It is also called Star Cactus because its rosettes have a curious habit of clumping together to form a star-like shape.
As its name suggests, the triangular leaves are retuse, i.e., flush to the ground and curved backward. H. retusa, H. bayeri, H. mirabilis, and H. magnifica, are among the most widely spread retuse Haworthia types in cultivation.
The leaves are lime green with white stripes that run along their length. They’re arranged in a rosette pattern and can grow up to 3 inches long. They’re also translucent from the tips. The flowers are white and tubular, blooming in the summertime.
Haworthia rossouwii
Haworthia rossouwii is a succulent plant native to the Overberg region of the Western Cape Province of South Africa.
This small plant has a rosette of narrow, triangular leaves up to 8 cm long. Sharp spines line the edges giving it a serrated saw-like appearance. Its rosettes are stemless.
The leaves are yellow-green to light green in color and slightly translucent. They’re broad at the bottom and taper off at the top into sharp, brown spikes. These tips are curved slightly inward, differentiating this species from H. mirabilis, which has a similar appearance.
The blooms are small, white, and borne on short stems in late winter to early spring.
- Mature Size: 3 inches
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Haworthia truncata (Horse’s Teeth)
Haworthia truncata stands out among Haworthia as a truly unique species. It forms rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that seemingly end abruptly in a cross-section. This is not the result of pruning but a decision made by nature. Rows of these tightly bound together leaves with ‘cut ends’ form the rosettes in neatly opposing rows.
The epithet “truncata” means “maimed” or “mutilated,” which is apt as far as naming conventions go. This is also where the plant gets its common name, Horse’s Teeth.
Other than the cross-sections, the leaves are relatively normal. They have a dull green color and a slightly rough surface. The flowers are small and white, borne on short stalks in summer.
- Mature Size: 1 inch tall, 4 inches wide
- Hardiness: -1.1°C or 30°F
Honorable Mention: Zebra Plant (Haworthia fasciata/Haworthia attentuata)
The Zebra Plant or the Zebra Haworthia is arguably the most common Haworthia in cultivation today. Both Haworthia fasciata and Haworthia attentuata are referred to as Zebra Plant as they have similar characteristics, but H. attentuata is far more common among regular gardeners.
The white horizontal stripes on the green leaves serve as the primary identifier.
Funnily enough, neither of these plants is a part of the Haworthia genus. They’ve both been reclassified as Haworthiopsis attenuata and Haworthiopsis fasciata. But owing to the widespread fame and renown of Zebra Haworthia, misinformation is rife.
Differences Between Aloe and Haworthia
Haworthia was previously a part of the Aloe family, and they’re often confused with Aloe plants. But there are quite a few ways to tell them apart:
Size: As a rule of thumb, Aloe vera plants are generally larger than their Haworthia counterparts. If you’re dealing with small succulent plants, something that can fit comfortably on a desk, then chances are, you’re dealing with a Haworthia.
Aloe succulents can easily reach multiple feet in height. However, even at their smallest, Aloes usually can’t fit themselves on a windowsill or a tabletop.
Flowers: Another way to tell the difference between the two genera is the flowers. Haworthia species usually have white or pale pink flowers of diminutive size. Aloe flowers, on the other hand, also come in white, but they also come in all the different shades of the rainbow as well. Colorful flowers are a sign it’s an Aloe.
Leaf Margin Teeth: Typically, teeth or spines on the sides of the leaves are a sure sign it’s an Aloe. Haworthia plants are generally spine-free.
If it’s not immediately visible, run your fingers along the length of the leaves. If you feel sharp protrusions that prick your skin, it’s an Aloe. Otherwise, it’s most likely a Haworthia.
Do note that there are some Haworthia that do have teeth on the leaf margins (e.g., H. mirabilis).
What Is The Difference Between Haworthia and Haworthiopsis?
Haworthiopsis is a relatively new genus of plants, conceived in 2013 by British botanist Gordon Douglas Rowley (1921–2019), which includes, most prominently, Zebra Haworthia (Haworthia fasciata).
Previously, Haworthia was unofficially divided into soft-leaved Haworthia and hard-leaved Haworthia.
The hard-leaved Haworthia were further divided into two subgenera (Hexangulares and Robustipedunculares). As a result of Rowley’s efforts, these two subgenera were reclassified as Haworthiopsis and Tulista, respectively.
Now, only the soft-leaved Haworthia are considered true Haworthia, and all hard-leaved Haworthia are either rebranded as Haworthiopsis or Tulista.
Raised stripes, hard leaf surfaces, and prominent tubercles (in comparison to Haworthia) are some of the main identifying features of Haworthiospsis.
FAQ
What is the difference between Haworthia fasciata and Haworthia attenuata?
An easy way to tell the difference between the two is to check the white horizontal stripes on the leaves. Haworthia attentuata has tubercles or raised white spots on both sides of its leaves, whereas Haworthia fasciata only has raised stripes on one side. The other side is completely bare.
Do Haworthias need full sun?
No, they prefer partial shade or bright indirect sunlight. This is because direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to lose their color.
Some Haworthia types like to be happily stressed as a means to change color (H. mirabilis), but they still require some level of partial shade from the harsh afternoon sun in the summers.
References
- Revisiting monophyly in Haworthia Duval (Asphodelaceae): Incongruence, hybridization and contemporary speciation
- “Haworthia angustifolia var. albanensis ISI 1210.” by srboisvert is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
- “File:Haworthia arachnoidea.jpg” by SKsiddhartthan is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- “Haworthia Mutica hybrid.” by UglyPlantation is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
- “Haworthia bolusii v. blackbeardiana” by salchuiwt is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
- “Haworthia chloracantha var. ‘Tenera Major’.” by srboisvert is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
- “Haworthia cymbiformis var cymbiformis 2” by MeganEHansen is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
- “Haworthia lockwoodii” by salchuiwt is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
- “File:Haworthia magnifica var acuminata – MBB Vleesbaai 2.jpg” by Abu Shawka is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- File:Haworthia serrata – rossouwii serrata – koppies 1.jpg by Abu Shawka is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons