Haworthia Zebra Cactus – How To Care For Zebra Haworthia Plants

zebra haworthia
zebra haworthia
(Image credit: Gardening Know How, via Nikki Tilley)

Zebra Haworthia plants are clump-forming plants related to Aloe and native to South Africa, as are many succulents. Both H. attenuata and H. fasciata have large leaves that hold water. Rigid, evergreen and somewhat unusual, dedicated collectors brought them to Europe in the 1600's. Since then, many people grow Haworthia succulents. They are available as part of unique collections and are fast becoming favorite houseplants for their ease of care.

Care of Zebra Haworthia

Growing zebra Haworthia is a little different from the care of many other succulents. These plants are native to a subtropical climate and exist for long periods with no rainfall. An understory plant, sources advise: “Eastern morning sun only, otherwise shade.” Others say to care for these plants the same way you care for Echeveria. Again, it likely depends on your climate and the plant’s location. If you notice browning on the tips, reduce daily light.

Northern gardeners can’t expect succulent specimens to perform in the same way as they do in California, where many of them grow. Frost, freeze, and rain there don’t equate to those same elements in other areas.

Stripes and speckles in shades of reds, browns, and greens adorn large leaves that store water on Haworthia zebra cactus, making watering needs infrequent.

Along with limited watering, prune these plants only to remove flower stalks or remove offsets. They may prove somewhat difficult for the inexperienced succulent grower, but following these guidelines can help keep your Haworthia zebra cactus slowly thriving.

Becca Badgett
Writer

Becca Badgett was a regular contributor to Gardening Know How for ten years. Co-author of the book How to Grow an EMERGENCY Garden, Becca specializes in succulent and cactus gardening.