Synonyms:

Aloe reinwardtii
Catevala reinwardtii
Haworthia reinwardtii
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii var. brevicula
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii f. chalumnensis
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii f. kaffirdriftensis
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii f. olivacea
Haworthiopsis reinwardtii var. reinwardtii

Habitat:

Native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, Haworthia reinwardtii is typically found in the shady nooks of rocky outcroppings. It favors a climate that provides it with bright, indirect light and a distinct dry season, simulating the conditions of its natural, semi-arid habitats. These environments are crucial for the plant’s development, offering the perfect balance between light exposure and protection from the harsh midday sun.

Description:

Haworthia reinwardtii is characterized by its striking, zebra-striped leaves that form in a rosette pattern. These succulent leaves are dark green, adorned with white, bumpy tubercles that align in bands across the surface, giving it a distinctive, textured appearance. The plant typically grows up to 20 cm in height, with leaves reaching around 8 cm in length. Over time, Haworthia reinwardtii can produce offsets, leading to the development of dense clusters that add to its visual appeal. During spring, if the conditions are right, it sends up a slender, up to 30 cm tall flower stalk that bears small, tubular white flowers, adding a subtle charm to its already captivating structure.

Cultivation:

This is a slow growing plant, easy to cultivate. The plant needs a full sunlight exposure but is recommended to avoid direct sun-light during the hottest periods. The plant does not like temperatures below 10°C so it needs to be placed indoors in the coldest periods. The soil should be mixed with pumice, clay and loam to allow for drainage and prevent root rot, as the plant is prone to it. Remember to use a perforated pot to drain excess water. Watering can be done regularly in spring and summer: during the vegetative period you can water the plant every 7 days, checking that the soil is completely dry before watering again. In winter you should stop the watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. If you want a faster and lusher growth, you can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with specific fertilizers for succulents; stop fertilizing throughout the winter. If the pot becomes too small for the plant, you can repot it in a pot that is 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season with fresh new potting soil. Be careful to red spiders and mealybugs.

Propagation:

Propagation of Haworthia reinwardtii is commonly achieved through offsets or leaf cuttings. Offsets, or pups, appear at the base of the plant and can be gently removed when they have formed their own roots. Planting these in a similar cacti and succulent soil mix can yield new growth within weeks. Leaf cuttings, although less commonly used, can also be successful. Allow the cut leaf to callous over for a few days before placing it on well-draining soil, where it will eventually root and form a new plant.

Curiosity:

Official Web Site:
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www.giromagicactus.com

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