How to Grow and Care for Hawthornia (Haworthia) Plants

The term “Hawthornia” is a frequent misspelling for Haworthia, a large genus of small succulent plants native to Southern Africa. Adapted to dry, desert-like conditions, they are characterized by fleshy leaves that grow in a rosette pattern, ranging from a few inches to nearly a foot in height. Often compared to Aloe, Haworthias are much smaller and celebrated for their diverse appearances. Their reputation as low-maintenance houseplants makes them a popular choice for new and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Haworthia Care Guide

Proper lighting is a primary component of Haworthia care. These succulents flourish in bright, indirect sunlight, like that from an east-facing window. Direct afternoon sun can be too harsh, causing the leaves to scorch or develop red or white stress colors. If the plant’s green color begins to fade, it may be receiving too little light.

Haworthia soil must allow for excellent drainage to replicate their native arid environment. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is suitable, as it is formulated to prevent water retention. You can also create your own mix by amending potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve aeration. This soil structure helps protect the plant’s sensitive roots from the effects of overwatering.

Watering practices should follow a “soak and dry” methodology. This involves watering the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to escape from the pot’s drainage holes, and then letting the soil dry out completely before the next watering. During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, the plant will require more frequent watering than in the fall and winter when it enters dormancy. In winter, watering might only be necessary every other month.

Haworthias are not demanding about temperature or humidity. They are comfortable in household temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C) and can tolerate a drop to around 50°F (10°C). These plants are not frost-tolerant and must be protected from freezing conditions. Standard home humidity levels are sufficient.

These succulents are light feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced succulent fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, once or twice during the spring and summer growing season. Refraining from fertilizing during the fall and winter dormancy period allows the plant to rest. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant.

Common Haworthia Varieties

The Zebra Plant (Haworthiopsis attenuata) is one of the most recognizable varieties. It has upright, dark green leaves covered in bumpy, white horizontal stripes that resemble a zebra’s pattern. This small, clumping succulent forms dense rosettes. The contrast between its green leaves and white tubercles makes it a favorite.

The Fairy Washboard (Haworthiopsis limifolia) gets its name from its distinct leaf texture. The leaves are triangular and stout, with pronounced transverse ridges that give them a rough, washboard-like feel. In their native habitat, these ridges help channel water to the plant’s roots. This variety often has a dark green to brownish color.

The Window Haworthia (Haworthia cooperi) has fascinating foliage with a unique adaptation. This variety has plump, light green leaves that end in translucent “windows.” These transparent tips allow sunlight to penetrate the interior of the leaf for photosynthesis. This feature is an adaptation to its native environment, where much of the plant may be buried in sand.

Propagating Haworthia

Haworthia is easily propagated using its offsets, or “pups,” which are small plants that grow from the base of the mother plant. This method is best performed during the active growing season in late spring or early summer. The process is straightforward and yields a new plant identical to the parent.

Wait until an offset has grown to be about one-third the size of the main plant, ensuring it has developed some of its own roots. Carefully remove the soil from around the base to expose the connection between the pup and the mother plant. Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, gently separate the offset from the parent.

After separation, allow the cut surface of the offset to dry and form a callus for a few days. This step helps prevent the wound from rotting when it comes into contact with soil. Once callused, plant the pup in a small pot filled with a dry, well-draining succulent mix. Wait a week or more before watering lightly to encourage new root growth.

Common Problems and Solutions

Overwatering is a frequent issue, manifesting as mushy, yellowing, or browning leaves. This indicates root rot, where roots decay in constantly wet soil. To solve this, reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.

Elongated and pale new growth, known as etiolation, occurs when the plant is not receiving enough light. To resolve this, move the Haworthia to an area with more bright, indirect sunlight. The stretched appearance is permanent, but new growth will be more compact in proper lighting.

Thin, shriveled, or crispy-tipped leaves indicate underwatering. This happens when the plant uses its stored water, causing the leaves to deflate and wrinkle. A thorough watering, where the soil is fully saturated and allowed to drain, will cause the leaves to plump back up within a day or two.