Scientific Name
Haworthia mucronata Haw.
Common Name(s)
Glassrim Haworthia
Synonym(s)
Aloe mucronata, Haworthia altilinea var. mucronata, Haworthia altilinea f. mucronata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Origin
This species is native to South Africa. It is one of the most widely distributed Haworthias in the Little Karoo and is also known from several localities in the Eastern Cape province.
Description
Haworthia mucronata is a small succulent that forms stemless rosettes of pale green or yellow-green leaves that take on a pinkish blush in bright light. The rosettes grow up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) in diameter, slowly producing offsets to form a clump. Leaves are soft, at first erect, becoming ascending to spreading, pointed, incurved, up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long, and up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide. They have longitudinal lines and translucent margins and keel, both often lined with pronounced bristles. Flowers are white with grey-green keels and appear spirally arranged on a slender, up to 16 inches (40 cm) tall stem in spring.
Etymology
The specific epithet "mucronata" derives from a Latin word meaning "pointy" and refers to the leaf shape.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia mucronata
Light: Although some species can grow in full sun, most Haworthias are adapted to thrive in partial shade. Place the potted H. mucronata 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. mucronata 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 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. mucronata 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 mucronata
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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
