Scientific Name
Haworthiopsis tortuosa (Haw.) Gildenh. & Klopper
Synonyms
Aloe tortuosa (basionym), Catevala tortuosa, Haworthiopsis x tortuosa, Haworthia tortuosa
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Haworthiopsis
Description
Haworthiopsis tortuosa, formerly known as Haworthia tortuosa, is a small succulent, up to 15 cm tall, with elongated rosettes of leaves arranged in a spiral along the stem. Leaves are thick, rough, sometimes with small tubercles, dull green, triangular, pointed, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long and up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide. Flowers are white and appear on an up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall inflorescence. It is a very variable plant in shape, size, and color of leaves.
Photo via lapshin.org
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Haworthiopsis are best suited to container gardening. In frost-free areas with lower rainfall, some of them can be grown successfully in rockeries when planted in sheltered areas amongst rocks, where they will form clumps or clusters over time.
Even though most species are hardy and can tolerate full sun, they flourish in semi-shaded positions, but brighter light conditions are needed to bring out the leaf coloration. Any window in your house or office is likely to be an appropriate setting for Haworthiopsis.
These succulents can be planted in terracotta pots using a well-drained potting soil.
As with all succulents, the most dangerous situation is too much water. The best way to water these succulents is to use the "soak and dry" method. Get the soil completely wet and then wait until the soil is dry before watering again. In the winter, reduce watering to once per month. Never allow water to collect in the rosette.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthiopsis.
Origin
Haworthiopsis tortuosa is a very variable plant, supposed to be a hybrid of Haworthiopsis viscosa.
Links
- Back to genus Haworthiopsis
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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