Haworthia retusa

Haworthia is a large genus of small, perennial, succulent plants in the Asphodelaceae family, native to South Africa. The genus, Haworthia, was formerly known as Haworthiopsis and, over time, species have been moved from one genus to the other depending on the characteristics of their leaves. In general, Haworthia tend to have translucent epidermal windows on the tops of the leaves. Star Cactus (H. retusa) is a flowering succulent plant that forms star-shaped rosettes with its fleshy leaves, hence the common name.The plant is native to a very small area around Riversdale, in the Western Cape province of South Africa.  The genus name represents the British botanist Adrian Haworth, while the species name refers to the "retused" leaf-shape.

Haworthia tend to have erect or creeping stems from a thick woody root stock and often form small to large groups of plants. In the wild, these plants grow in very harsh conditions and are commonly found buried in sand. For gardeners, they are easy to grow, preferring a well-draining soil mix.  While they are somewhat tolerant of low-light conditions, they prefer full sun or bright direct light, which also produces the best colors in the leaves. Star Cactus is not cold tolerant and will not survive a freeze; it is often grown under glass.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Excessive watering can cause root rot. Sensitive to frost.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Haworthia.