Scientific Name
Haworthia transiens (Poelln.) M.Hayashi
Synonym(s)
Haworthia cymbiformis f. multifolia, Haworthia cymbiformis var. brevifolia, Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia, Haworthia cymbiformis var. transiens, Haworthia cymbiformis var. translucens, Haworthia planifolia var. transiens
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Etymology
The specific epithet "transiens (TRANS-ee-ens)" means "traversing" or "passing over" and probably refers to the habitat of this species that grows near rivers or streams, usually on rocks.
Origin
Haworthia transiens is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape and Western Cape).
Description
Haworthia transiens, also known as Haworthia cymbiformis var. transiens, is a stemless succulent that forms solitary to slowly proliferous rosettes of thick, fleshy, light green leaves that turn reddish-brown in full sun. The rosettes can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The leaves are roundish, each with 8 to 10 longitudinal stripes, finely toothed margins, and a pointy translucent area near the tip. They can grow up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
From mid-spring to early summer, the white to pale pink flowers with brownish-green veins appear on slender stalks that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia transiens
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. transiens 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. transiens 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. transiens 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: H. transiens 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. transiens 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. transiens. 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 transiens
H. transiens 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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