Scientific Name
Haworthia aristata Haw.
Synonym(s)
Aloe denticulata, Catevala denticulata, Haworthia denticulata, Haworthia lapis, Haworthia lapis var. rava, Haworthia rava, Haworthia setata var. subinermis
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Etymology
The specific epithet "aristata (a-ris-TAH-tuh)" means "having awn" and refers to the lacy margins and keel of the leaves.
Origin
Haworthia aristata is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape, from Port Elizabeth to Kommadagga).
Description
Haworthia aristata is a small succulent that forms stemless rosettes of dark green to bluish-green leaves with very little translucence and entire or finely spined margins and keel. The rosettes can reach up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) in diameter and slowly produce offsets, forming a cluster over time. The leaves are erect and incurved, measuring up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long and 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) wide.
The white flowers have light brown veins and appear on simple, lax stalks that can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) long in winter.
Haworthia aristata was described a long time ago by Adrian Hardy Haworth, and since then, there has been a discussion about the validity of the species. Each taxonomist has a different view on this element and applies it to a different group of plants.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia aristata
Light: Place the potted plant in a bright area with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. White, yellow, or red-tinged leaves usually indicate that your H. aristata is receiving too much sunlight. Deep shade tends to weaken the plant over a prolonged period. If your plant has spent the winter indoors, gradually move it outdoors into the bright sun to prevent sunburn.
Soil: Like all Haworthias, this plant does not like its roots to remain wet for prolonged periods, so the soil should be well-drained. Use a commercial potting mix for succulents, or make your own.
Hardiness: This succulent likes warmer temperatures in the summer but cool in the winter. However, it does not like being too cold. H. aristata can withstand temperatures as low as 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b.
Watering: In spring and fall, when the growth is most active, water H. aristata thoroughly, then wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water your plant less during the winter when its growth slows down significantly. During the hottest summer months, when this plant is mostly dormant, water just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: H. aristata does not require much fertilizer. However, for optimum growth, fertilization is a good idea. Feed only with a dilute fertilizer and only during the active growing season.
Repotting: This slow-growing succulent can stay in the same pot for years. However, repot H. aristata into fresh soil every two to three years in spring or fall to keep your plant healthy and happy. Repotting time is also the time to take offsets for propagation.
Propagation: Vegetative propagation, especially by offsets, is the quickest and most common method of propagating H. aristata. This plant can also be propagated by leaves and seeds. Remove the offsets when they have started developing their own roots. Sow seeds in spring or fall in a well-draining soil mix.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthia.
Toxicity of Haworthia aristata
H. aristata is considered non-toxic to humans and animals.
Links
- Back to genus Haworthia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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