Scientific Name
Haworthia decipiens var. xiphiophylla (Baker) M.B.Bayer
Synonym(s)
Haworthia arachnoidea var. xiphiophylla, Haworthia setata var. xiphiophylla, Haworthia xiphiophylla
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Etymology
The varietal epithet "xiphiophylla (zy-fi-oh-FIL-la)" means "sword-like leaves" and refers to the shape of the leaves of this variety.
Origin
Haworthia decipiens var. xiphiophylla is native to South Africa. It occurs around Uitenhage and Coega in the Western Cape province.
Description
Haworthia decipiens var. xiphiophylla, formerly known as Haworthia arachnoidea var. xiphiophylla or Haworthia xiphiophylla, is a small succulent that forms rosettes of yellowish-green leaves with prominent bristles along the margins and without translucent areas. The rosettes can grow solitary or produce offsets to form small clumps with age. They can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.
The white flowers with greenish-brown venation appear on slender stalks in summer.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia decipiens var. xiphiophylla
Light: Although some species can grow in full sun, most Haworthias are adapted to thrive in partial shade. Place the potted H. decipiens var. xiphiophylla 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. decipiens var. xiphiophylla 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. decipiens var. xiphiophylla 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. When this plant is mostly dormant during the hottest summer months, 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. However, for best health, H. decipiens var. xiphiophylla should be repotted into fresh soil every two to three years.
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 decipiens var. xiphiophylla
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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