Scientific Name
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana (G.G.Sm.) J.D.Venter & S.A.Hammer
Synonyms
Haworthia comptoniana, Haworthia retusa var. comptoniana
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Description
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana, formerly known as Haworthia comptoniana, is a succulent that forms stemless, usually solitary rosettes. Its growth is almost entirely underground, with only the apex of the leaves exposed to the atmosphere at the soil level. It is bigger than Haworthia emelyae, with the rosette growing up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) in diameter. Leaves are broadly triangular, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide. They are reticulated with pale white-flecked "veins" running into lines that converge at the apex. Flowers are 2-lipped, white with greenish veins, and borne on an up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall inflorescence.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Haworthias are not considered difficult houseplants to grow. If you can keep a pot of Aloe alive on a windowsill, chances are you can do the same with a dish of Haworthia. As with all succulents, the most dangerous situation is too much water. They should never be allowed to sit in water under any circumstances. At the same time, these little decorative plants can be grown in interesting containers such as teacups and even miniature baby shoes. If you're given a Haworthia in such a container, make sure the container had adequate drainage. If it doesn't, it might be a good idea to pop the plant out of its container and add a layer of gravel to the bottom to reduce the wicking action of the soil above. Finally, look out for sunburned spots on your plants.
Haworthias are small, usually between 3 and 5 inches (7.5 cm and 12.5 cm) in height, and relatively slow-growing. They are often grown in small clusters in wide, shallow dishes. Over time, clusters will naturally enlarge as the mother plant sends off small plantlets.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthia.
Origin
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana is native to South Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Haworthia
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
