The Zebra Aloe (Haworthiopsis attenuata) is a popular succulent. Its rosettes of pointed, dark green leaves feature striking white, bumpy stripes or tubercles. Native to South Africa, this hardy, low-maintenance plant is well-suited for small spaces.
Zebra Aloe Care Essentials
Zebra Aloe thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An east or west-facing window provides ideal conditions, as direct midday sun can scorch its leaves. While it tolerates lower light, insufficient light may lead to etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes weak. Rotating the plant periodically ensures even growth.
Proper watering is crucial. Use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly soak the soil until water drains from the bottom, then allow it to dry completely before watering again. Water every two to three weeks during spring and summer, and less frequently in fall and winter (sometimes monthly). Mushy, yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, while shriveled leaves often indicate underwatering.
Zebra Aloe requires well-draining soil. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal for aeration and drainage. You can create your own mix by combining regular potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, pumice, or gravel to enhance drainage. The pot must have drainage holes.
Zebra Aloe prefers average room temperatures, generally between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It tolerates typical household humidity and does not require additional humidity. Avoid exposure to cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Zebra Aloes are not heavy feeders. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength. Fertilizing once a month or every 2-4 weeks is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter, as this can lead to nutrient buildup and root damage.
Potting and Repotting Zebra Aloe
Repotting Zebra Aloe is not a frequent task. Repotting is typically needed every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes. Spring is the optimal time for repotting.
When choosing a new pot, select one only slightly larger than the current container, ensuring it has drainage holes. Terracotta pots are preferred as they promote faster soil drying. To repot, gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot, filling with fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Avoid watering for a few days after repotting to allow any damaged roots to heal.
Propagating Zebra Aloe
Zebra Aloes are readily propagated through offsets, also known as “pups,” which are small plantlets growing around the base of the mother plant. This method increases your collection. Spring is the best time for propagation.
To propagate, gently separate the pups from the parent plant, ideally with some roots attached. If the offset has no roots or a cut was made, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting. Plant offsets in their own pots filled with well-draining succulent mix, burying them to hold them upright. Water sparingly until the new plant establishes roots, and protect young plants from direct sunlight. Leaf propagation is also possible, though less common, by allowing a healthy leaf to callus before planting its base in soil.
Common Zebra Aloe Problems
Overwatering is the most frequent issue for Zebra Aloes. Symptoms include mushy, brown roots and soft, yellowing leaves. Ensure well-draining soil and pots, and water only when the soil is completely dry. If root rot occurs, remove the plant from the wet soil, trim any affected roots, and repot into fresh, dry succulent mix.
Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become leggy (etiolation), resulting in fading leaf patterns. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight can correct this. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, turning them red or white. Common pests like mealybugs or scale can affect Zebra Aloes. These can be managed by wiping them away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.