Please note these have minimal roots but are still healthy.
Origin and Natural Habitat
Haworthiopsis limifolia is widespread throughout eastern South Africa, and also occurs in Mozambique and Swaziland. The variegated form is extremely rare and only really seen in nurseries or collections.
Plant Characteristics
Haworthiopsis limifolia have a highly attractive star-shaped growth form, with plenty of raised ridges on their leaves. These specific plants have dark-green leaves mixed with lines or sections of golden-yellow variegation. They offset readily, but are slow growing.
Care Guide
Light
Haworthiopsis limifolia can handle quite a bit of light and will have great colouration if kept under 40-60% shade cloth. It will not tolerate full sun.
Soil
Haworthiopsis requires a very well-draining soil mixture with plenty of gritty components. A medium with akadama and pumice is preferred.
Water
In cultivation, Haworthiopsis limifolia can be watered well during the cooler months. However, reduce the amount of water it receives in summer when it is dormant.
Pot size
Haworthiopsis limifolia can grow quite 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 species’ ideal temperature ranges between 15 – 25°C. It can tolerate 5 – 35°C and is very sensitive to frost.
Humidity
Haworthiopsis limifolia are sensitive to humidity. Make sure that your growing space has plenty of airflow.
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
Haworthiopsis limifolia is in active growth during autumn, winter and early spring.
Propagation
Haworthiopsis limifolia 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 Haworthiopsis from the main stem. Let this dry for 5 days, then plant it. The best time to propagate is early autumn.