Origin
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is an etiolated form of the Haworthia maraisii Poelln. species which comes from the Little Karoo region of the Western Cape Province.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Marais' Haworthia or Marais's Haworthia in honor of Dr. P.K. Marais who discovered the species in 1973.
Uses
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer is a popular ornamental plant grown for its attractive appearance. It is often grown in pots or containers and used in indoor gardening and landscaping. Additionally, it is a great addition to any succulent collection.
General Appearance
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer is a small succulent plant that grows up to 3 inches in height and 4 inches in diameter. It has fleshy, dark green leaves that are triangular in shape and covered with warty tubercles. The leaves have band-like markings that run horizontally and make the plant look like it's wearing a miniature zebra coat. The leaves grow in a tight rosette that forms a compact cluster. In late spring, it produces white or pink tubular flowers on long, slender stalks that rise above the foliage. The plant prefers well-draining soil, bright light, and low to moderate water.
Light Requirements
The Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer requires bright and indirect light to grow successfully. The plant should be placed near a window that receives indirect sunlight or under a shade. While the plant can tolerate lower light levels, prolonged exposure may lead to stunted growth and weak foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer can thrive in a wide-range of temperatures, however, the plant prefers moderate temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C). The plant can tolerate higher or lower temperatures, but growth may slow down or stop altogether. It is also important to keep the plant away from any drafts or temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining potting mix is crucial for the Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer. The plant prefers a soil mix with a high percentage of sand or gravel to support proper drainage. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Cultivation
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer is a small succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, as long as it is provided with the right conditions. When growing this plant, it is important to use a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root growth. Use a mix of sand, perlite or gravel with regular potting soil to create a good medium for your plant.
When growing this plant indoors, it is best to place it in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Outdoors, place the plant in a partially shaded spot to shield it from the intense sun.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer are relatively low compared to other houseplants. This is because the plant has a small root system and is adapted to surviving in drought conditions. Only water when the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can result in root rot, which can kill the plant. Use a watering container that allows you to control the amount of water you give your plant to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
When it comes to fertilizing Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer, it is important to use a balanced fertilizer specially designed for succulent plants. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer. Do not fertilize during the winter months as the plant goes into dormancy.
Pruning
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer does not require regular pruning. However, if any of the leaves turn yellow or brown, it is best to remove them to prevent the spread of any disease. Use a sanitized sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut away the damaged leaves carefully.
Propagation of Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer can be propagated by several methods:
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are a common method of propagating Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer. Leaf cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy leaf and use a sharp, sterilized knife to cut it from the stem. Allow the cut end to dry for a day or two until it forms a callus. Once the callus has formed, plant the leaf cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly until new growth appears.
Offsets
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer produces offsets, or small baby plants, that can be removed and replanted. Once an offset has developed several leaves of its own, gently remove it from the parent plant and allow the cut end to dry and callus over. Plant the offset in a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly until new growth appears.
Seeds
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer can also be propagated by seed. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet and place the pot in a bright, warm location. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to keep the new plant out of direct sunlight until it becomes established in its new location. Once the new plant has begun to grow, gradually increase the amount of sunlight it receives until it can tolerate full sun.
Disease Management
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer is a hardy and relatively disease-resistant plant. However, like all plants, it can still be affected by certain diseases. The most common diseases that can affect Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer are:
- Fungal Diseases: This includes diseases caused by Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Phytophthora fungi. These diseases are usually caused by overwatering or planting in poorly draining soil. The symptoms of these diseases include root rot, wilting, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant. To manage these diseases, it is essential to water the plant sparingly and avoid planting in poorly draining soil. Also, ensure proper air circulation and limit overhead watering.
- Bacterial Diseases: These diseases are caused by bacteria such as Erwinia and Pectobacterium. The symptoms of bacterial diseases include soft, mushy spots on the leaves, stem, and roots. To manage bacterial diseases, cut off the affected parts, maintain good hygiene, avoid overcrowding, and ensure proper air circulation.
- Viral Diseases: Viruses, such as Cucumber Mosaic Virus, can also infect Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer. Infected plants will show symptoms such as yellow spots, ring spots, and mosaics on the leaves. To manage viral diseases, remove infected plants and avoid planting near infected plants.
- Nematodes: These are microscopic worms that can cause damage to the roots of Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer, resulting in stunted growth and wilting. To manage nematodes, use nematode-resistant soil and avoid overcrowding.
Pest Management
Haworthia maraisii Poelln. var. notabilis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer can be affected by pests such as:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny, cotton-like insects that can attach to the leaves and stems, sucking the sap and causing yellowing and wilting. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny, red or brown insects that can cause yellowing and mottling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, increase humidity by spraying the plant with water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Fungus Gnats: These are small black flies that feed on organic matter in the soil, including the roots of the plant. To manage fungus gnats, let the soil dry out before watering, use yellow sticky traps, and avoid over-fertilization and overwatering.
