Overview
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Asphodelaceae. This rare species is endemic to South Africa, growing only in a small area in the Western Cape Province.
Common Names
There are no widely recognized common names for this plant, but it is often referred to simply as Haworthia angustifolia var. altissima or by its cultivar name "Dragon's Blood."
Appearance
Haworthia angustifolia var. altissima is a small, slow-growing succulent that typically reaches a height of 10-15 cm. It has thick, pointed leaves that grow in a rosette formation. The leaves are dark green and have white dots arranged in stripes on the upper surface, giving them a unique appearance. The tips of the leaves are brown or reddish-brown, which is where the "Dragon's Blood" cultivar name comes from. The plant produces small white flowers on a tall stalk in the summer months.
Uses
Like many succulent plants, Haworthia angustifolia var. altissima is prized by collectors for its unique appearance and rarity. It is also grown as a houseplant and is well-suited for small terrariums. Additionally, this plant has several medicinal uses in traditional South African medicine, where it is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Light requirements
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer is adapted to growing in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch or burn its leaves, and it is recommended to provide filtered light or shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer lies between 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). It is a hardy plant and can withstand a temperature range of 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C). However, it is essential to protect the plant from freezing temperatures as they can damage the leaves and roots.
Soil requirements
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer prefers a well-draining soil mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of one-third sand, one-third peat moss, and one-third loamy soil works well for this plant. Water the plant only when the soil is entirely dry to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer is an attractive succulent plant that is fairly easy to cultivate and maintain. The first step in cultivation is to choose a suitable planting site. The plant grows well in well-draining soil, so choose soil that is porous and slightly acidic. If planting the Haworthia indoors, plant it in a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging of the soil.
The plant prefers a warm temperature of between 65°F to 85 °F (18°C to 29°C). It flourishes in medium light conditions and should, therefore, be placed in a location with bright but indirect sunlight, such as near a window.
Watering Needs
The Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer plant stores water in its leaves, allowing it to survive for long periods without watering. The plant prefers to be slightly dry, so it is best to let the soil dry out between watering sessions. Careful watering is, therefore, necessary to prevent the plant from being overwatered, especially when growing in containers.
When it is time to water the plant, give it enough water to saturate the soil and wait for the soil to dry out before the next watering session. The best way to check if the plant needs to be watered is by inserting a finger into the soil to feel the moisture content.
Fertilization
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer benefits from fertilization, with the recommended period being once a month during the growing season, which is typically from April to September. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength and apply it to the soil. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, causing root damage.
Pruning
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer seldom requires pruning. However, it may sometimes develop leggy or unhealthy leaves that need removal. Pruning can be done throughout the year, with the best time during the plant's growing season. Prune only the unhealthy leaves, cutting them off at their base with a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears. Ensure that the cut is made as close to the soil level as possible. Dispose of the pruned leaves appropriately, ensuring they don't fall on other parts of the plant.
Propagation of Haworthia Angustifolia Haw. Var. Altissima M.B.Bayer
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer, also known as the "tall leafed Haworthia," can be propagated through several different methods. These propagation methods include leaf cuttings, offset division, and seed propagation.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings can be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. To take a leaf cutting, carefully remove a leaf from the parent plant using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors, making sure to include a small portion of the stem. Allow the leaf cutting to dry for several days in a shaded area until a callus forms at the base of the leaf. Once the callus has formed, carefully plant the leaf cutting into a well-draining potting mix, making sure not to bury the callused end of the leaf cutting. Water sparingly and keep the cutting in a warm, brightly lit area. Roots and new growth should appear within a few weeks.
Offset Division
Another method of propagating Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima is through offset division. This method involves separating the offsets, or pups, that grow from the base of the parent plant. To do this, carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant using a sterile knife or scissors. Plant the offsets in a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly. Keep the newly planted offsets in a warm, brightly lit area. Roots and new growth should appear within a few weeks.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another option for propagating Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima. To do this, collect the seeds from a mature plant during the growing season. Plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover lightly with soil. Water sparingly and keep the newly planted seeds in a warm, brightly lit area. Germination should occur within a few weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer
Haworthia angustifolia Haw. var. altissima M.B.Bayer is generally a hardy plant, but like any other plant, it can be susceptible to some diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Overwatering and poor drainage are the common causes of root rot. It can be prevented by using well-draining soil and avoiding frequent watering. If the plant already shows signs of root rot, it needs to be treated by removing the affected parts carefully and repotting the plant.
2. Leaf Spot: The fungal disease causes small, circular brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by providing proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Infected parts should be removed and the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
3. Powdery Mildew: It is a common fungal disease that looks like powdery white spots on the leaves. Keeping the leaves dry and providing good air circulation can help prevent powdery mildew. It can be treated with fungicides that contain sulphur or potassium bicarbonate.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that can attack Haworthia angustifolia. They appear as white, waxy, cotton-like masses on the leaves. They can be removed by manually wiping them off using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Insecticidal soaps can also be used to control mealybugs.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that spin webs on the plants. They can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, so keeping the plant humid can prevent them. Applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil can control spider mites.
3. Scale Insects: These insects look like small bumps on the leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and drop its leaves. The use of horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can help control scale insects. However, it is essential to thoroughly coat the entire plant with the oil or soap for full effectiveness.
