Scientific Name
Haworthia cuspidata Haw.
Accepted Scientific Name
Haworthia cymbiformis (Haw.) Duval
Common Name(s)
Star Window Plant
Synonym(s)
Catevala cuspidata, Haworthia cymbiformis × retusa, Haworthia × cuspidata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Etymology
The specific epithet "cuspidata (kus-pi-DAY-tuh)" means "having a cusp, tip, or point; cusped, pointed" and refers to the pointed leaf apex.
Origin
The authenticity and origin of this succulent are debated by botanists. Lately, it was synonymized with Haworthia cymbiformis var. cymbiformis, but some botanists argue that it is an old hybrid resulting from the cross between Haworthia cymbiformis and Haworthia retusa.
Description
Haworthia cuspidata is a small succulent that forms rosettes of bright green leaves marked with darker green translucent areas near the apex. The rosettes can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and offset freely, forming a dense clump with age. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and pointed at the tips. They are shorter and thicker than those of Haworthia cymbiformis var. cymbiformis.
The white flowers have brownish-green veins and appear on slender stalks that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall in summer.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia cuspidata
Light: Although some species can grow in full sun, most Haworthias are adapted to thrive in partial shade. Place the potted H. cuspidata in a bright area with some protection from the hottest rays of the day.
Soil: All Haworthias do not like their roots to remain wet for prolonged periods, so their potting soil should be well-drained. Use a commercial succulent potting mix, or make your own.
Hardiness: Haworthias like warmer temperatures in the summer but cool in the winter. However, they do not like being too cold. H. cuspidata 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 Haworthias thoroughly, then wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water your plants less during the winter when their growth slows down significantly. During the hottest summer months, when Haworthias are mostly dormant, water it just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: Haworthias do not require much fertilizer, but fertilization is a good idea for optimum growth. Feed only with a dilute fertilizer and only during the active growing season.
Repotting: These succulents are generally slow-growing and can stay in the same pot for years. H. cuspidata should be repotted into fresh soil every two to three years for best health.
Propagation: Vegetative propagation, especially by offsets, is the quickest and most common method of propagating Haworthias. They 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 cuspidata
Haworthia species are generally 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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