Scientific Name
Haworthiopsis limifolia (variegated) – an informal descriptive name
This plant is not found in the wild and therefore cannot be classified as a distinct form. Its variegation is unstable, and it does not meet the criteria for recognition as a distinct cultivar under the ICNCP🡕.
Accepted Scientific Name
Haworthiopsis limifolia (Marloth) G.D.Rowley
Synonym(s)
Haworthia limifolia (variegated)
Common Name(s)
Fairy Washboard, File-leafed Haworthia
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthiopsis
Etymology
The specific epithet "limifolia" (pronounced "lim-ih-FOH-lee-uh") means "file-leaved; having file-like leaves" and refers to the transverse ridges on the plant's leaves.
Description
Haworthiopsis limifolia (variegated), formerly known as Haworthia limifolia (variegated), is an attractive succulent that forms small rosettes of dark green leaves with irregular cream- to yellow-colored markings. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm). The leaves are triangular to ovate-lanceolate, spreading, and very broad at the base, measuring up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in width.
In late summer and fall, Haworthiopsis limifolia (variegated) can produce white, tubular, and not very showy flowers on slender stalks that can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm) long.
Origin
Haworthiopsis limifolia (variegated) is a sport of Haworthiopsis limifolia selected in cultivation for its variegated foliage.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis limifolia (variegated)
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
These succulents are not considered difficult to grow as houseplants. If you can keep a pot of Aloe alive on a windowsill, you can do the same with a dish of Haworthia. As with all succulents, the most common issue is overwatering. They should never be allowed to sit in water under any circumstances. At the same time, these small decorative plants can be grown in interesting containers such as teacups and even miniature baby shoes. If you're given a Haworthia in such a container, ensure the container has adequate drainage.
Haworthias are small, typically 3 to 5 inches (7.5 cm to 12.5 cm) tall, and are relatively slow-growing. Therefore, they are often grown in small clusters in wide, shallow pots. Over time, clusters will naturally enlarge as the mother plant sends off small plantlets. When the cluster has outgrown its container, repot into a new, wide, shallow pot with fresh potting soil in the spring or early summer. This is also the time to take offsets for propagation.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthia.
Links
- Back to genus Haworthiopsis
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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