Origin
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda, also known as the window Haworthia, is a succulent plant species that originates from the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa.
Common Names
Window Haworthia is one of the common names for Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda, as well as "Fairy Washboard" and "Concave Haworthia".
Uses
Window Haworthia is primarily grown as a houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is valued for its ability to thrive in low light and dry conditions, making it an ideal plant for busy individuals or those with limited space.
General Appearance
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda is a small, slow-growing succulent that typically reaches 10-15 cm in height. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are arranged in a rosette pattern, forming a beautiful star-shaped plant. The leaves are green, lanceolate and covered with raised white tubercles, giving the plant a distinctive textured appearance. The flowers bloom in a tall spike that extends 30-40cm above the foliage, with small, white, tubular flowers.
Light Requirements
The Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda plant grows best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, whereas insufficient light can lead to leggy growth. A south-facing windowsill that receives filtered sunlight is an ideal location for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15-30°C). It is important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations, as this can cause damage to the leaves.
Soil Requirements
The Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is recommended. It is important to avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in soggy soil.
Cultivation Methods
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda is a succulent plant that can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It prefers bright but indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. The plant can thrive in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F, making it perfect for growing indoors in a well-lit room. When growing outdoors, it's essential to ensure the plant is grown in well-drained soil, with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. This plant prefers to be root-bound, so refrain from repotting too often and provide adequate space for the roots to grow.
Watering Needs
Being a succulent, Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda has typical watering needs. Allow the soil to dry out entirely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to fungal infections and root rot. When watering, ensure that the water drains out of the pot's bottom entirely, as standing water can be dangerous to the roots. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month, as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, fertilize the plant once every three months, using a balanced succulent fertilizer. During the growing season, you can use a half-strength fertilizer solution. Fertilizing is not necessary in the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Although not necessary, pruning can be helpful to maintain the plant's shape and appearance. Prune back any dead or damaged leaves using sterile pruning shears. Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda does not require heavy pruning as the plant grows slowly. If you need to repot the plant, prune back the roots by a third, but remember to provide adequate time for the plant to recover before watering.
Propagation of Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda can be propagated in several ways, including:
Leaf cuttings
The easiest method of propagating Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda is through leaf cuttings. Simply take a healthy leaf and twist it off from the base of the plant. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days and then place it on top of well-draining soil. Ensure that the leaf is in contact with the soil, but not buried. Within a few weeks, small plantlets will start to emerge from the base of the leaf.
Division
If the mother plant has developed offsets, these can be removed and planted separately to create new plants. Care should be taken when removing the offsets to ensure that they have their own roots and that there is no damage to the mother plant.
Seeds
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda can also be propagated from seed, although this method is more time-consuming. Collect the seeds as soon as the seed capsules have dried out and turned brown. Sow the seeds on top of well-draining soil, cover lightly with soil, and keep them moist. The seeds should germinate within four to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda
Haworthia floribunda Poelln. var. floribunda is a tough little succulent that is generally low-maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases. However, specific issues may arise from time to time. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some management practices to control them effectively.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: These are common pests which suck sap from the leaves, and leave behind a sticky residue. You can control them by wiping with a cotton swab or cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol.
2. Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. One way to control the pests is to avoid overwatering and to increase relative humidity. Spraying the plant with water is another pest control measure to reduce the population.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck out sap. They can be removed by scraping them off with your fingernails or using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol.
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to rotting of the roots and eventual death of the plant. It can be avoided by planting in well-draining soil, and allowing the soil to dry completely between watering.
2. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that manifests as a powdery white coating on the leaves. A solution of baking soda and water can be sprayed on the plant to control the disease.
3. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot can be caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens. It is important to remove diseased leaves, avoid overwatering, and allow the plant to dry before watering again.
By being proactive and following the recommendations above, the plant can thrive for years without major issues.
