Haworthia parksiana

Scientific Name

Haworthia parksiana Poelln.

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia

Origin

This species is native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa.

Description

Haworthia parksiana is a small succulent that slowly grows in clumps of stemless rosettes. It is the smallest and possibly the rarest of all Haworthias. The rosettes grow up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter. Leaves are sharply recurved, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, and have tiny tubercles scattered along the surfaces. The leaf color varies from dark green to dull grey-green and reddish-green. Flowers are white with dull green veins and appear in fall on an unbranched, up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall inflorescence.

Etymology

The specific epithet "parksiana," for some unexplained reason, honors the non-existent Mrs. Parks.

How to Grow and Care for Haworthia parksiana

Light: Although some species can grow in full sun, most Haworthias are adapted to thrive in partial shade. Place the potted H. parksiana 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. parksiana 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. parksiana 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: 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, H. parksiana 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 parksiana

Haworthia species are generally non-toxic to humans and animals.

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