Haworthia Haworthia

Haworthia is a large genus of small, perennial, succulent plants in the daylily family (Asphodelaceae) and is native to South Africa. The genus name honors Adrian Hardy Haworth, a British botanist and entomologist from the late 1700s to early 1800s.

In the wild, these plants grow in harsh conditions and are commonly found buried in sand. For gardeners, they are easy to grow. These plants prefer well-drained potting medium, and it is best to allow the potting medium to dry out between waterings. While they are somewhat tolerant of low-light conditions, they prefer full sun or bright indirect light, which also produces the best colors in the leaves. The average home temperature and humidity levels are adequate for these plants. They are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 and are drought tolerant. 

Plants in this genus range in size from 2 to 12 inches tall and equally as wide. They have a clumping habit and form a small rosette with thick, fleshy leaves. The species in this genus have a variety of leaf textures, stripes, and patterns. Some plants have clear leaf tips, while others may have a totally translucent leaf. The flowers are delicate, tubular, white to pink and appear on long slender stems. They typically bloom in the late spring or summer. 

Haworthias are primarily used as ornamentals and are especially popular with beginner gardeners. Consider using these low-maintenance plants in a terrarium, dish garden, or desktop plant in your home or office. In warmer climates that may be used outdoors in a rock garden. 

In 2013 and 2014, the genus Haworthia was split when several species were moved to Haworthiopsis and Tulista. Many familiar cultivated species are now placed in these other genera. Haworthia and Haworthiopsis can usually be distinguished by characteristics of their leaves. Haworthia species have translucent epidermal windows at the tips of their leaves. Haworthiopsis species, on the other hand, have opaque, linear leaves, with white, raised calluses in spots or bands on their undersides. Tulista is similar to Haworthiopsis vegetatively, but the flower is sessile on the pedicel. In Haworthiopsis, the flower has a short stipe where it joins the pedicel.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Haworthias are generally free of most insect pests except for mealybugs. Root rot may occur from excessive watering. These plants are sensitive to frost.

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