Haworthia - Tessellata Mystery aka 'Mystery' or 'Cheetah Plant'

Haworthia - Tessellata, commonly know as Mystery,  or 'Cheetah Plant' is a captivating small succulent prized for its intricate and often variable leaf patterns. As a cultivar of Haworthia tessellata, it inherits the species' characteristic translucent leaf windows but often exhibits unique and intriguing reticulations or markings that contribute to its "mystery." This relatively easy-to-care-for plant forms charming rosettes and is a favorite among succulent enthusiasts for its distinctive appearance.
 
Key Features of Haworthia tessellata 'Mystery'
Compact Rosettes: Forms small, tight rosettes of fleshy leaves.
Translucent Leaf Windows: Leaves feature translucent areas or "windows" that allow light to penetrate to the inner tissues for photosynthesis.
Variable Leaf Patterns: Exhibits intricate and often unique patterns of lines, reticulations, or markings within the translucent leaf windows, giving it a "mystery" element as patterns can differ between individuals and even leaves on the same plant.
Triangular to Lance-Shaped Leaves: Leaves are typically somewhat triangular or lance-shaped with a pointed tip.
Color Variations: Leaf color can range from shades of green and grey-green to bronze or reddish hues, often influenced by light exposure.
Small Stature: Remains a small, manageable succulent, ideal for small pots and collections.
Potential for Offsets: Mature plants may produce offsets or "pups" from the base, forming clusters over time.
Delicate Flowers: Produces slender stalks bearing small, typically white or greenish-white flowers.
 
Care for Your Haworthia tessellata 'Mystery'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct, intense sun can scorch the leaves. Eastern or western facing windows are often 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. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally 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 tessellata 'Mystery'
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 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. 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 offsets that have developed their own root systems 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. 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 cultivar, especially regarding the "mystery" patterns.
 
Haworthia tessellata 'Mystery' is a fascinating small succulent celebrated for its intricate and often unique patterns within its translucent leaf windows. Its relatively easy care and intriguing appearance make it a delightful addition to any succulent 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.