Haworthia plants, with their distinctive rosette forms and often translucent or textured leaves, are popular, low-maintenance succulents. Native to Southern Africa, these compact plants thrive indoors, making them suitable for plant enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Essential Haworthia Care
Light
Haworthias prefer bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat under rocks or vegetation. An east-facing window is ideal, providing gentle morning sun without the harsh intensity of afternoon rays that can scorch leaves. While they tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, consistent strong direct light can cause leaf burn.
Water
Proper watering prevents root rot in Haworthias. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until excess drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Frequency varies seasonally; water more often in spring and summer (every 2-4 weeks) and less in winter dormancy (monthly or less). Avoid letting water collect in the rosette, as this can lead to rot.
Soil
Haworthias need a well-draining, gritty, and fast-drying soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A commercial succulent or cactus potting mix is a good starting point. Amend it with inorganic materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage and aeration, with a common recommendation being 50-70% inorganic material.
Temperature and Humidity
Haworthias thrive in average room temperatures, from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). They tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but require frost protection. These succulents are well-adapted to low humidity, making them suitable for most indoor environments without special adjustments.
Fertilizer
Haworthias have low fertilizer requirements. During their active growing season in spring and summer, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents or cacti sparingly, once or twice. Dilute the fertilizer to half or a quarter of the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Potting and Repotting
Repot Haworthias every 2-3 years, or when root-bound, to refresh soil and provide space. Spring is the best time, coinciding with their active growing season. Choose a new pot with drainage holes that is only slightly larger, or the same size if just refreshing soil. After repotting, allow roots to dry for a day or two before placing the plant in new soil to prevent rot. Wait a few days to a week before the first watering to allow the plant to settle and any root injuries to callus.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Overwatering often causes rotting or mushy leaves, especially with poorly draining soil. Yellow, wet leaves or a black base indicate root rot from excessive moisture. Reduce watering frequency and ensure quick soil drainage to resolve these issues.
Shriveled or dry leaves signal underwatering or extreme heat. If leaves become thin, wrinkled, or curl inward, the plant needs water. Slightly increasing watering frequency, while adhering to the soak-and-dry method, resolves this.
Leggy growth or stretching (etiolation) indicates insufficient light. The plant elongates, losing its compact form. Move the Haworthia to a brighter location with indirect light to encourage compact growth.
Reddish, brownish, or pale leaves can signal too much direct sunlight or environmental stress. Gradually acclimate the plant to a slightly shadier spot to restore its natural coloration. While Haworthias are generally pest-resistant, mealybugs and spider mites can appear. Treat mealybugs by dabbing them with rubbing alcohol. Manage spider mites by increasing humidity or using neem oil.