Synonyms:

No synonyms are recorded for this species name.

Habitat:

Haworthia retusa f. variegata is a nursery variety and thus doesn’t exist in nature.

Description:

Haworthia retusa f. variegata, a renowned succulent, boasts glossy, star-shaped rosettes of vibrant green. The variegated form displays itself in a unique way, different from the other variegated specimens. In Haworthia retusa f. variegata, in fact, we have a shade of yellow radiating from the centere of the rosette towards the outermost leaves, in which it appears more pronounced. The variegation, thus, regards the whole rosette. Sometimes, also, the variegation displays dark green stripes on a pale yellow background. So, every variegated form of Haworthia retusa is unique. Cultivated since the early 18th century, its leaves exhibit a distinctive feature—a smooth upper surface with nearly translucent “windows” and veining, lending a peculiar appearance. In its natural habitat, it’s often partially buried, leaving the windowed portion exposed. While wild retusas tend to remain solitary or form small branched groups, cultivated ones tend to sucker freely, forming expansive clumps. Notably, some plants labeled as “retusa” may actually be Haworthia turgida. This species displays significant morphological variability, with forms transitioning seamlessly between one another. Cultivated specimens may display shades ranging from dark to light green.
The leafy stem is exceedingly short, supporting compact star-like rosettes comprising 10 to 15 leaves each. Individual rosettes measure between 5 and 10 centimeters in diameter, occasionally reaching up to 15 centimeters.
The fleshy leaves, ranging from 2.5 to 8 centimeters in length, are approximately 1 to 2 centimeters wide and 8 to 12 millimeters thick at the center. They adopt various shapes, from ovate triangular to deltoid, with a distinct flattening on the upper half and slight reflexing towards the tips. Each leaf terminates in a cuspidate tip, adorned with a terminal bristle measuring 3 to 6 millimeters. While the back is rounded, the upper half features a keel. Margins and keel may or may not bear sparse fine white teeth. The leaves are smooth, lacking spines or tubercles on both surfaces. Their coloration varies from lime green to glossy green, occasionally showcasing brownish-green or hints of purple in intense light. The terminal end-area is mostly retuse (flat), adorned with dark windows and clear green vertical stripes.
The inflorescence consists of a solitary, unbranched, wiry flower-stalk that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height. A lax raceme extends about 15 centimeters, with very short pedicels and small deltoid bracts. The inconspicuous flowers, numbering between 20 to 30, are small and short-lived, displaying white petals with greenish-brown veins. Their perianth measures approximately 2 centimeters, with a limb half the length of the tube.
Haworthia retusa f. variegata typically blooms from late spring through summer. Once mature, it tends to flower readily, occasionally producing multiple blooms within a single year, both indoors and out.

Cultivation:

Haworthia retusa f. variegata, a member of the Hawortia genus, is known for its ease of cultivation. To ensure its optimal growth, consider the following recommendations:
It thrives in an ideal exposure to half sun, requiring bright but indirect sunlight to prevent the leaves from taking on a reddish hue. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of 5°C.
Careful watering is crucial, particularly in the spring and summer months. Always ensure that the soil has dried out before rewatering. During other periods, maintain a slightly damp condition.
Choosing a specific cactus soil is recommended, with the addition of a layer of inert material at the bottom of the container to enhance drainage.
For optimal nutrition, fertilize the plant once a month in the spring and summer, using a product that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
During repotting, bear in mind that the roots of Haworthia retusa f. variegata are fleshy and require ample space. Avoid using pots that are too small, even if the plant does not exhibit significant vertical growth.

Propagation:

Haworthia retusa f. variegata, a member of the Haworthia genus, offers several avenues for propagation. One method involves starting from seeds, which should be carefully placed in a well-draining cactus soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment. Another approach is through leaf or root cuttings. In addition to the conventional leaf cuttings, this variety of Haworthia can also be propagated using a segment of the root. Furthermore, Haworthia retusa f. variegata may produce offshoots, known as suckers, which can be used for propagation. Another interesting method involves taking a fresh floral stem and, with proper care, it may produce a small plant. This offspring, much like suckers, can be partially buried to encourage the development of roots. These various propagation methods offer opportunities to multiply and cultivate Haworthia retusa f. variegata in a variety of ways.

Curiosity:

The name “Haworthia” is in honour of the botanist Adrian Hardy Haworth.

Official Web Site:
www.giromagi.com

Italian Blog:
www.giromagicactus.com

Tips:
Read our advice