Haworthia care: watering, light and repotting
Also called zebra haworthia, haworthia fasciata, haworthiopsis · Haworthiopsis attenuata · Asphodelaceae family
30 d in winter
How often to water the haworthia?
Allow about 14 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 30 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A succulent that copes with indirect light. Water when the soil is completely dry, without wetting the centre.
What light does it need?
The haworthia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from May to July, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 4–6 in (10–15 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Brown, soft leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Stop watering and repot in cactus compost.
Reddish leaves
Cause: Too much direct sun. What to do: Move it back a little from the glass.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the haworthia?
About every 2 weeks in spring and summer, and every 30 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the haworthia?
The haworthia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the haworthia?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the haworthia?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the haworthia safe?
The haworthia is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the haworthia forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.