Haworthiopsis attenuata (Zebra Plant)

Scientific Name

Haworthiopsis attenuata (Haw.) G.D.Rowley

Common Name(s)

Zebra Haworthia, Zebra Plant

Synonym(s)

Aloe attenuata, Apicra attenuata, Catevala attenuata, Haworthia attenuata, Haworthia pumila subsp. attenuata, Haworthiopsis attenuata var. attenuata

Scientific Classification

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

Origin

This species is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape).

Description

Haworthiopsis attenuata, formerly known as Haworthia attenuata, is an attractive low-growing succulent that forms rosettes of thick fleshy dark green leaves with white tubercles. It offsets readily to form clumps. The rosettes grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall and 5 inches (12.5 cm) in diameter. Flowers are white with green veins and appear on up to 16 inches (40 cm) tall inflorescences, typically from spring to fall, but indoors, they can blossom at any time of the year.

This species is very similar to and often confused with Haworthiopsis fasciata. However, it can easily be distinguished by its white tubercles that occur on both upper and lower surfaces of leaves, while H. fasciata has tubercles only on the underside.

Etymology

The specific epithet "attenuata (at-ten-yoo-AY-tuh)" means "thinned, reduced, attenuated" or "weakened, diminished" and refers to the leaves that narrow gradually to the tip. It is the feminine form of "attenuates," the perfect passive participle of the Latin verb "attenuo."

How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis attenuata

Light: H. attenuata thrives in semi-shaded positions. Brighter light conditions are needed to bring out the leaf coloration. Any window in your home or office is likely to be an appropriate setting for this succulent.

Soil: Use a commercial potting soil specially formulated for succulents or make your own well-draining potting mix.

Hardiness: This plant likes warmer temperatures in summer but cooler in winter. H. attenuata 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. attenuata 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. attenuata is a slow-growing plant, and it 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. Avoid summer fertilizing as this succulent is in a 6 to 8 weeks rest period.

Repotting: When the plant has outgrown its container, repot it in the spring or early summer into a new, slightly larger pot with fresh soil.

Propagation: H. attenuata is mostly and easily grown from stem cuttings or by removing offsets from the mother plant. Take stem cuttings during the warmer months. Remove offsets when they have started developing their roots. Spring is the best time to sow seeds.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis.

Toxicity of Haworthiopsis attenuata

H. attenuata is considered non-toxic to humans and animals.

Varieties, Forms, and Cultivars of Haworthiopsis attenuata

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