Origin and Natural Habitat
Haworthia splendens is native to the Albertinia district in the Western Cape of South Africa.
Plant Characteristics
Haworthia splendens has attractive, smooth and glossy leaf windows. Plants often display a tinge of pink during summer.
Care Guide
Light
Haworthia splendens prefers shade and will maintain its form well if kept under 60% shade cloth. It will not tolerate full sun.
Soil
Haworthia splendens requires a very well-draining soil mixture with plenty of gritty components. A medium with akadama and pumice is preferred.
Water
In cultivation, Haworthia can be watered well during the cooler months. However, reduce the amount of water it receives in summer when it is dormant.
Pot size
Haworthia splendens can grow somewhat large, but initially a 10cm pot will be sufficient. As they grow older, plant this species in a pot that is 5cm wider than its outermost leaves to accommodate new growth.
Temperature
This plants’ ideal temperature ranges between 15 – 25Β°C. It can tolerate 5 β 35Β°C and is highly sensitive to frost.
Humidity
Haworthia are sensitive to humidity. Make sure that your growing space has plenty of airflow. Flower stems may become moldy if kept in too high humidity.
Fertilizing
Use a half-strength diluted general liquid fertilizer only during the growing season. Do not fertilize during summer. Alternatively, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer will be sufficient.
Growing season
Haworthia are in active growth during autumn, winter and early spring.
Propagation
This Haworthia can be propagated from seeds, leaves and offsets.
Seed germination: Seeds should be sown in early autumn. Plant the seeds in a coco peat mix in an airtight container, and cover them with some sifted coco peat. Once most of the seeds have germinated, remove the lid of the container to allow airflow. Gently water the seedlings every few days so that the soil does not dry out. The container should be relatively deep to accommodate their root systems.
Leaf propagation: Gently twist off one of the lower leaves, and place it on top of your usual growing medium. The leaf will eventually make roots after 2-3 weeks. At this point, cover the base of the leaf with some soil. It will then produce plantlets after some time.
Offset propagation: Using a sharp, clean knife, cut an offset of the Haworthia from the main stem. Let this dry for 7 days, then plant it. The best time to propagate is early autumn.