Origin and Natural Habitat
The natural form of Haworthia truncata occurs in the semi-arid Little Karoo, between Oudtshoorn, De Rust and Calitzdorp in the Western Cape of South Africa.
Plant Characteristics
Haworthia truncata, also known as ‘perdetande’ or ‘horse’s teeth’, is the only Haworthia with a distichous leaf arrangement, which means it grows in two opposite vertical rows, giving it the distinctive look of ‘horse’s teeth’. The word ‘truncata’ means ‘to end abruptly and square’. These particular plants are all grown from seed or leaf propagations.
Care Guide
Light
Haworthia truncata can handle quite a bit of light and will have great colouration if kept under 60% shade cloth. It will not tolerate full sun.
Soil
Haworthia truncata requires a very well-draining soil mixture with plenty of gritty components. A medium with akadama and pumice is preferred.
Water
In cultivation, Haworthia truncata 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 truncata can grow into quite large clusters, 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 species’ ideal temperature ranges between 15 – 25°C. It can tolerate 5 – 35°C and is sensitive to frost.
Humidity
Haworthia truncata 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 truncata is in active growth during autumn, winter and early spring.
Propagation
Haworthia truncata can be propagated from leaves, offsets and seeds.
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 5 days, then plant it. The best time to propagate is early autumn.