Haworthia vlokii is a small proliferous species that is easy to grow and propagate.
Scientific Name
Haworthia vlokii M.B.Bayer
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthia
Description
Haworthia vlokii is a small succulent with dense, stemless rosettes of dark green leaves with rows of opaque whitish dots towards the tips. The rosettes can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter and produce offsets freely, forming a dense clump. The leaves are fleshy, suberect to spreading, and have slightly incurving tips that end with an awn. They are up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long and 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) wide, with well-toothed margins and keel.
During the spring, the rosettes produce flowers that are white and brownish-pink, measuring about 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) in length. The flowers appear held on slender, unbranched stalks that can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) long.
Origin
Haworthia vlokii is native to South Africa. It grows in rock cracks on sandstone slopes in the Swartberg mountains in the Western Cape province.
Etymology
The varietal epithet "vlokii (LOH-kee-eye)" honors Jan H.J. Vlok (born 1957), a South African botanist and plant collector.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia vlokii
Light: Place the potted plant in a bright area with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. Deep shade tends to weaken the plant over a prolonged period. If it has spent the winter indoors, gradually move it outdoors into the bright sun to prevent sunburn.
Soil: This plant does not like its roots to remain wet for prolonged periods, so the soil should be well-drained. Use commercial soil for succulents, or make your own potting mix.
Temperature: Haworthia vlokii likes warmer in the summer but cool temperatures in the winter. However, it does not like being too cold. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: In spring and fall, when the growth is most active, water thoroughly, then wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water the plant less during the winter when its growth slows down significantly. During the summer, when it is mostly dormant, water it just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: Haworthia vlokii does not require much fertilizer. However, for optimum growth, fertilization is a good idea. Feed only with a water-soluble fertilizer only during the growing season.
Repotting: This plant can stay in the same pot for years. To keep it healthy and happy, repot it into fresh soil every two to three years in spring or fall.
Propagation: The most common method of propagating Haworthia vlokii is by offsets but can also be propagated by seeds. However, remove the offsets when they have started developing their own roots. Sow the seeds in spring or fall in a well-draining soil mix.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthia.
Toxicity of Haworthia vlokii
Haworthia vlokii is considered non-toxic and safe around kids and pets.
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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