Zebra Plant
haworthia fasciata
Also known as: ["Zebra Haworthia","Zebra Cactus"]
Overview
A small succulent with distinctive white-striped leaves, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Haworthia |
| Botanical Name: | Haworthia fasciata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; remove only dead or discolored leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense summer sun; ideal for indoor bright windowsills.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates some direct morning sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wetting leaves.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy garden soil; use gritty mix; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerate 50–90°F (10–32°C) with protection from extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from AC/heater vents; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize after watering; stop in fall/winter; use cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Leaf cuttings or offsets; leaf cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove leaf/offset.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (50–60%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; offsets establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use firm, healthy leaves; keep medium barely moist; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain aesthetics.
Tools
Clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead leaves; avoid over-pruning; clean debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider); ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; offsets may need separating.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water early morning; ensure drainage; avoid leaf contact.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer, reducing to monthly in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and pot size.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Brown leaf tips (cold), wilting or sunburn (heat), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot, and may lead to leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move to warmer spot, reduce watering, and insulate pot in cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently in heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage; fertilize during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength monthly in spring/summer; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHaworthia fasciata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose any known health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHaworthia fasciata is not considered toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHaworthia fasciata is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects when handled or ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Haworthia fasciata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Haworthia fasciata need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Haworthia turning yellow?
A: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause yellow leaves; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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