Haworthia springbokvlakensis – Locality Bundle (3 plants)
This bundle contains three plants, one each from: Skietnek, West of Kirkwood; Sandpoort; and 10km East of the type locality.
Origin and Natural Habitat
This plant occurs naturally in the arid ‘Springbokvlakte’ region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Some plants grows partially subterranean in the wild, exposing only the leaf windows to the sun. This habit prevents moisture loss during intense summer heat.
Plant Characteristics
The rosettes reach 5 cm to 7 cm in diameter. Leaves grow in a flat, inward-curving formation. The upper surfaces feature complex, semi-translucent windows crisscrossed with white veins. Growth remains extremely slow, favoring long-term stability over rapid expansion.
Care Guide
Light
Provide bright, filtered light. Direct sun scorches the translucent windows and causes permanent scarring. 50% shade cloth maintains the pattern intensity.
Soil
The roots demand perfect drainage to avoid rot. Use LDP Super Drainage Mix to prevent moisture buildup.
Water
Water heavily during cool autumn and spring months. Allow the substrate to dry out fully between sessions. Stop all water during the height of summer and mid-winter dormancy.
Pot Size
Use deep, narrow pots. The root system grows downward, not outward. Deep plastic pots prevent rapid soil compaction.
Temperature
Keep temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Protect the plant from frost and intense, stagnant heat.
Humidity
Maintain constant, active airflow. Stagnant air invites fungal rot within the leaf axils.
Fertilizing
Apply a weak, liquid succulent fertilizer once or twice during the growth cycle. Avoid feeding during dormancy.
Growing Season
Haworthia springbokvlakensis grows actively during the mild temperatures of autumn and spring. It slows its metabolism during the peak summer heat and mid-winter cold. Adjust your watering frequency to match these distinct growth phases.
Propagation
You can propagate this species through leaf cuttings or seed germination.
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 Cuttings: Twist a healthy leaf from the main stem during autumn. Make sure that it has some stem tissue attached at the base. Let it dry in shade for one week. Place the callused base on top of a dry, mineral substrate. Mist only after roots appear.
