Cooper's Haworthia
haworthia cooperi
Also known as: ["Window Haworthia","Puffy Haworthia"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant with translucent, puffy leaves that form rosettes, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Haworthia |
| Botanical Name: | Haworthia cooperi |
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 to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade but may etiolate in low light. Adjust exposure gradually if moving from low to high light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows for ideal indirect light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide dappled shade outdoors.
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).
Use gritty mix; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate warmth. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to quarter strength for safety; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the easiest method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset with a clean knife.
- Let callus form for 1–2 days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after a week.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (50–60%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use small pots to limit soil volume; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; avoid cutting healthy growth; clean debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer during active growth.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.Offsets may outgrow their space quickly.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf contact; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base, ensuring even saturation without wetting the leaves. Allow water to drain freely from the pot, avoiding standing water. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on warmth and light.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf shriveling, or blackening in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet. Prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or stunted growth, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHaworthia cooperi is not toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicHaworthia cooperi is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicHaworthia cooperi is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Haworthia cooperi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks.
Q: Does Haworthia cooperi need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Can Haworthia cooperi be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in bright, indirect light with minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, partial |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
