Origin
Haworthia cymbiformis (Haw.) Duval var. multifolia Triebner is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Asphodelaceae and the genus Haworthia.
Common names
This plant is commonly known as Cathedral window haworthia, Cathedral haworthia, Windowed haworthia, and Cymbiformis haworthia.
Uses
Due to its aesthetic value, Haworthia cymbiformis (Haw.) Duval var. multifolia Triebner is often grown as a houseplant or used for ornamental purposes in gardens. Additionally, in its native South Africa, the plant is used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The juice extracted from its leaves is believed to have healing properties for burns and ulcers.
General appearance
Haworthia cymbiformis (Haw.) Duval var. multifolia Triebner has charming, rosette-like, green leaves covered with transparent tips that give them their unique windowed appearance. Its leaves grow up to 4cm long, are cylindrical and curve downwards. It has white radial-stripes on the outer surface of the leaf tips. The plant grows up to 8cm long and 20cm wide. During summer, it produces tubular, white flowers that grow on a thin, long stem.
Light Requirements
Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia thrives in partial shade to full sun environments. It is best to place them in areas where they can receive bright indirect sunlight for most of the day and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight for prolonged periods to prevent sunburn and dehydration.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in moderate temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). However, it can tolerate higher and lower temperatures on a short-term basis. It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to frost or extreme heat as it may damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to mildly alkaline. It would be best to use a commercial cactus or succulent mix as it has the right mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss to provide optimal drainage. Additionally, adding crushed granite or pumice to the soil can aid in enhancing the drainage capacity.
Cultivation of Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia
Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to grow. It is a type of succulent that is native to South Africa and requires minimal care requirements to thrive.
The plant prefers to be grown in well-drained soil. It is essential to use a mix of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice to enhance drainage. The soil should be able to retain some moisture, but not be waterlogged to avoid root rot.
It is best to plant the Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia in a pot or container that has drainage holes. Choose a container slightly larger than the root ball and transplant the plant into it. Position the plant in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
It is essential to avoid overwatering Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia as it can result in root rot. The plant requires watering when the soil is dry to the touch. It is best to water the plant deeply and allow the excess water to drain out of the container's bottom.
The frequency of watering varies depending on the humidity levels, temperature, and soil quality. It is advisable to avoid letting the plant sit in standing water as it can lead to fungal growth and root rot.
Fertilization
The Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia does not require frequent fertilization. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents only during the active growing season. The fertilizer should be applied at half the recommended strength to avoid damaging the plant.
Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Overfertilization can lead to root damage, and it is vital to keep a close eye on the plant's reaction to fertilizer.
Pruning
Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia does not require pruning. However, it is essential to remove any yellow or brown leaves from the plant to promote healthy growth.
The plant naturally produces offsets or 'pups' around the base, and they can be removed once they have developed their root system. The offset should be removed carefully and transplanted into a new container with the appropriate soil mix.
Methods of propagation for Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia:
Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia is a succulent plant commonly known as Cathedral Window Haworthia. This plant is easy to propagate and is a great option for beginner gardeners who want to try their hand at creating new plants. There are several methods of propagation for this plant that can be used:
Leaf propagation:
Leaf propagation is a simple method that involves removing a healthy leaf from the parent plant and planting it in soil. The leaf should be removed by gently twisting it from the stem, making sure to keep the entire leaf intact. The leaf can then be placed in a pot of well-draining soil that has been moistened with water. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright location and the soil should be kept moist until the new plant has established roots.
Offset propagation:
Offset propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia. This method involves removing the offsets, or baby plants, that grow from the base of the parent plant. The offsets should be gently removed from the parent plant using a sharp, clean knife. Once the offsets have been removed, they can be potted in well-draining soil and placed in a bright, warm location. The soil should be kept moist until the new plants have established roots.
Seed propagation:
Seed propagation is the most time-consuming method of propagating Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia, but it can also be the most rewarding. Seeds can be harvested from the parent plant once the flowers have faded and the seed pods have dried out. The seeds can then be planted in a pot of well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright location and the soil should be kept moist until the new plants have sprouted.
Overall, Haworthia cymbiformis var. multifolia is a plant that is easy to propagate and can be quickly grown into new plants using a range of methods. With a little patience and care, anyone can successfully propagate and grow this beautiful succulent plant.
Disease Management
Haworthia cymbiformis is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to most diseases, but it can still fall prey to certain conditions. Here are the most common diseases that might affect this plant and how to manage them:
- Leaf rot: This fungal disease can be prevented by making sure the soil is not too moist and by avoiding getting water on the leaves. If the disease has already taken hold, remove the infected leaves and improve air circulation by spacing out the plants.
- Black spot: This fungal disease appears as black spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and reducing humidity levels in the growing area.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering, and it can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from the soil and examine the roots. If they are black or brown and mushy, the plant has root rot. Cut away any infected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Pest Management
Here are the most common pests that might affect Haworthia cymbiformis and how to manage them:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be prevented by regularly cleaning the plant with a gentle spray of water, as they thrive in dry and dusty conditions. If they have already infested your plant, treat it with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These insects are particularly problematic for Haworthia cymbiformis. They can be prevented by regularly inspecting the plant and removing any visible pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. A systemic insecticide may also be necessary.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems of plants. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treated with an insecticide.
Regularly inspecting your plant for symptoms of disease or pest infestations is the best way to catch problems early and keep your Haworthia cymbiformis healthy.
