Scientific Name
Haworthiopsis pungens (M.B.Bayer) Boatwr. & J.C.Manning
Synonym(s)
Haworthia pungens, Tulista pungens
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthiopsis
Etymology
The specific epithet "pungens (PUN-gens)" means "pricking, puncturing, stinging" and refers to the sharp-pointed leaves.
Origin
Haworthiopsis pungens is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape).
Description
Haworthiopsis pungens, formerly known as Haworthia pungens, is a small succulent that forms rosettes of smooth, rigid, and sharp-pointed leaves. The rosettes can grow up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter. They produce offsets around the base, forming a cluster up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter. When exposed to full sun, the green or grey-green leaves turn darker and reddish.
The greenish-white flowers appear on slender stalks that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long from summer to fall.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis pungens
Light: Although most species can tolerate full sun, these succulents thrive in semi-shaded positions. However, brighter light conditions are needed to bring out the leaf coloration.
Soil: Plant your Haworthiopsis in commercial soil formulated for succulents or make your own well-draining potting mix.
Hardiness: Haworthiopsis pungens 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 Haworthiopsis thoroughly, then wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water your plants less during the winter when their growth slows down significantly. During the hottest summer months, when Haworthiopsis are mostly dormant, water it just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: Haworthiopsis are slow-growing succulents and do not require much fertilizer. Therefore, feed with a dilute fertilizer and only from spring to fall.
Repotting: When the plant has outgrown its container, repot in the spring or early summer into a new, slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Propagation: Haworthiopsis are mostly and easily grown from stem cuttings or by removing offsets from the mother plant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis.
Toxicity of Haworthiopsis pungens
Haworthiopsis species are generally non-toxic to humans and animals.
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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