Haworthia - Reinwardtii
Haworthia reinwardtii is an eye-catching small succulent characterized by its upright columns of dark green leaves adorned with striking white tubercles or raised spots. Native to South Africa, this relatively slow-growing plant adds a unique architectural element to succulent collections and is appreciated for its distinctive appearance and ease of care.
Key Features of Haworthia reinwardtii
- Upright Columns of Leaves: Grows in a distinctive upright or slightly leaning columnar form.
- Dark Green Leaves: The leaves are typically a deep, rich green color.
- Prominent White Tubercles: The leaf surfaces are covered in raised, pearly white tubercles arranged in transverse bands or lines.
- Triangular Leaf Shape: The leaves are generally triangular or lance-shaped and are tightly packed around the stem.
- Relatively Small Stature: Typically remains a small succulent, though it can slowly grow taller over time.
- Offsets Readily: Produces offsets or "pups" from the base, forming clusters.
- Small White Flowers: Mature plants produce slender stalks bearing small, white or greenish-white flowers.
Care for Your Haworthia reinwardtii
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct, intense sun can scorch the leaves, causing them to turn reddish or brown. East or west-facing windows are usually ideal.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite or sand is recommended.
- Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, especially during the dormant winter months when watering should be significantly reduced.
- Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
- Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Haworthia reinwardtii
- Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the columns.
- Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
- Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and scale, which can sometimes hide in the crevices between the leaves. Treat any infestations promptly.
- Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and fall).
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Offsets (Pups): The easiest and most common method. Carefully separate the offsets that have developed their own roots from the mother plant and pot them individually.
- Leaf Cuttings: While possible, propagation from leaf cuttings can be slow and not always successful with Haworthia reinwardtii. Allow the cut end to callus before placing it on well-draining soil.
- Seed: Propagation from seed is possible but can be a slow process and may not result in plants identical to the parent.
Haworthia reinwardtii is a distinctive and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent with its unique upright growth and striking white tubercles. Its architectural form and low maintenance make it a wonderful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.