Scientific Name
Haworthia reticulata Haw.
Synonym(s)
Aloe reticulata, Apicra reticulata, Catevala reticulata, Haworthia reticulata var. reticulata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Etymology
The specific epithet "reticulata (reh-tick-yoo-LAY-tuh)" means "reticulated, net-like" and refers to the netted pattern on the leaves.
Origin
Haworthia reticulata is endemic to the area between Worcester and Robertson in the Western Cape, South Africa.
Description
Haworthia reticulata is a small succulent that forms rosettes of yellowish-green leaves that turn reddish in direct sunlight. It freely produces offsets and, in nature, usually grows in large clusters. The rosettes can reach up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. The leaves are fleshy and smooth, with a translucent part near the tips, a few longitudinal lines across the upper surface, and small teeth on the margins. They are suberect and can grow up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long and 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide.
The flowers are white to pinkish and borne in simple inflorescences that can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall.
Haworthia reticulata is very similar to Haworthia herbacea, another endemic species to the Western Cape, and it is difficult to distinguish between the two.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia reticulata
Light: Place the potted plant in a bright area with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. White, yellow, or red-tinged leaves usually indicate that your H. reticulata receives too much sunlight. Deep shade tends to weaken the plant over a prolonged period. If your plant has spent the winter indoors, gradually move it outdoors into the bright sun to prevent sunburn.
Soil: Like all Haworthias, this plant does not like its roots to remain wet for prolonged periods, so the soil should be well-drained. You can use a commercial potting mix for succulents or make your own.
Hardiness: This succulent likes warmer temperatures in the summer but cool in the winter. However, it does not like being too cold. H. reticulata 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. reticulata 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 it just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: H. reticulata does not require much fertilizer. However, for optimum growth, fertilization is a good idea. Feed only with a dilute fertilizer and only during the active growing season.
Repotting: This slow-growing succulent can stay in the same pot for years. To keep your plant healthy and happy, repot H. reticulata into fresh soil every two to three years in spring or fall. Repotting time is also the time to take offsets for propagation.
Propagation: Vegetative propagation, especially by offsets, is the quickest and most common method of propagating H. reticulata. This plant 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 reticulata
H. reticulata is considered 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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