Haworthia - Attenuata
Haworthia attenuata is a popular small succulent celebrated for its striking rosettes of stiff, dark green leaves adorned with characteristic white, raised bands or tubercles. This relatively low-maintenance plant is a favorite among succulent enthusiasts for its architectural form and ease of care, often grown indoors in containers.
Key Features of Haworthia attenuata
- Compact Rosettes: Forms tight, symmetrical rosettes of upright leaves.
- Dark Green Leaves with White Bands: The leaves are typically a deep green to brownish-green, featuring prominent white, raised bands or tubercles arranged in transverse rows.
- Triangular Shape: Individual leaves are generally triangular or lance-shaped, tapering to a point.
- Small Size: Remains a relatively small plant, typically not exceeding a few inches in diameter.
- Slow Growth Rate: Grows at a slow pace.
- Produces Offsets: Mature plants readily produce offsets or "pups" from the base, forming clusters over time.
- Insignificant Flowers: Produces tall, slender stalks with small, inconspicuous white or greenish-white flowers.
Care for Your Haworthia attenuata
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the leaves. East or west-facing windows are often ideal.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is highly recommended.
- Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
- Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and should be protected from frost.
- Humidity: Tolerates typical household humidity levels.
Maintenance for a Thriving Haworthia attenuata
- Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosettes.
- Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
- Pest Control: Monitor for common houseplant pests like mealybugs and scale. 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 summer).
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Offsets (Pups): The easiest and most common method. Carefully separate offsets that have developed their own root systems from the mother plant. Allow any cut surfaces to callus over for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.
- Leaf Cuttings: While possible, propagation from leaf cuttings can be slow and less reliable for Haworthia attenuata. Select a healthy, mature leaf, allow the cut end to callus, and then place it on top of well-draining soil.
- Seed: Propagation by seed is possible but is a slower process and typically used by hybridizers.
Haworthia attenuata is a distinctive and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that offers architectural beauty with its dark green leaves and characteristic white bands. Its compact size and tolerance for indoor conditions make it a popular choice for adding a touch of natural elegance to any space.
* 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.