Viscous Haworthia
haworthia viscosa
Also known as: ["Window Haworthia","Sticky Haworthia"]
Overview
A compact succulent with fleshy, windowed leaves forming rosettes, 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 viscosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- 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.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east-facing window. Outdoors, provide filtered shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; shield from intense midday sun; adjust light exposure gradually.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but sparingly; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset or cut stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings take 3–6 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; keep medium lightly moist; avoid direct sun until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully remove dead leaves by hand or with clean scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm increase in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on warmth and light exposure.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Below 50°F (10°C), growth slows, and prolonged cold can cause root damage or leaf necrosis.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Above 90°F (32°C), leaves may curl, wilt, or develop sunburn spots, especially with poor ventilation.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with leaves; rinse soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHaworthia viscosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHaworthia viscosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHaworthia viscosa is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Haworthia viscosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks.
Q: Does Haworthia viscosa need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Haworthia viscosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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