Cushion Haworthia
haworthia cymbiformis
Also known as: ["Haworthia cymbiformis var. cymbiformis","Haworthia cymbiformis var. obtusa"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant with fleshy, green leaves arranged in a rosette, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Haworthia |
| Botanical Name: | Haworthia cymbiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, partially shaded spot
- 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 sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, 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; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
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 cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Ideal range 50–80°F (10–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers moderate temperatures year-round.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset or cut stem.
- Let callus form (1–2 days).
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use offsets for faster results; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gently pull off dead leaves or use clean scissors to cut damaged ones.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; remove carefully; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root health; trim if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base, ensuring even saturation without wetting 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing) in cold; wilting or brown leaf tips in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or wrinkle; growth may stall if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C) for prolonged periods.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half-strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHaworthia cymbiformis is not considered toxic to cats. It does not contain any known toxic substances that would cause harm to cats if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHaworthia cymbiformis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds or adverse effects associated with this plant when ingested by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicHaworthia cymbiformis is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects on human health when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Haworthia cymbiformis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Haworthia cymbiformis need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Q: Can Haworthia cymbiformis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in bright light with minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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