Origin
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln., commonly known as the Smooth Haworthia or Schuldt's Haworthia, is a species of succulent plant from the family Asphodelaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas in the Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal.
Common Names
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is also known by its common names which include Smooth Haworthia, Schuldt's Haworthia, and Window Haworthia.
Uses
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance. It is a slow-growing plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. The plant can be propagated from offsets or seeds. It is an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens as it requires minimal care.
General Appearance
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is a small succulent plant that typically grows up to 5-8cm high and 10cm wide. Its leaves are triangular-shaped, pointed, and smooth-textured, growing in a rosette pattern. The leaves are lime green in color and have translucent areas on the tips. The plant has white tubular flowers that grow on thin stems, usually appearing during spring to summer.
Overall, the plant's attractive appearance, easy maintenance, and hardiness make it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts.Light Requirements
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. requires bright but filtered sunlight. It is best grown in a shaded area, but direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. A south-facing window with a sheer curtain or sheer shade is ideal for indoor cultivation.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging between 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 27°C). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) during its dormant period. Make sure that the plant is not exposed to frost or cold drafts, as this can damage the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mixture of cactus soil, perlite, and sand can provide good drainage and aeration. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. Overwatering can damage the roots, and stagnant water can lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is a small, succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is an easy plant to grow, making it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts. This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, and needs to be kept in well-draining soil. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, and can be propagated through offsets or seeds.
Watering needs
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. does not require frequent watering and can tolerate periods of drought. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant, leading to root rot and other issues. To water this plant, ensure that the soil is completely dry before watering again. Water thoroughly, allowing water to run out of the drainage holes. In the winter months, the plant may only need to be watered once a month.
Fertilization
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize this plant only during the growing season, which is typically in the spring and summer months. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it once a month. Overfertilization can be detrimental to the plant, so be careful not to apply too much fertilizer.
Pruning
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. does not require much pruning, as its small size generally keeps it well-maintained. However, if the plant becomes too unruly or overgrown, it can be pruned back using a pair of sharp, clean scissors. Pruning can also help to promote growth and keep the plant looking healthy.
Propagation of Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln.
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings are a common and easy method of propagating Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. This method involves cutting a healthy leaf from the parent plant, letting it dry for a few days until the cut end is calloused, and then placing it in well-draining soil mix. To encourage root growth, it is important to keep the soil slightly moist and provide bright, indirect light. After a few weeks, the leaf should start rooting and eventually growing into a new plant.
Division of offsets
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. produces offsets, or small plants that grow from the parent plant's base. These offsets can be carefully removed with a clean knife or scissors and planted in a separate pot with fresh soil mix. It is important to allow the offsets to callous over the cut end for a few days before planting to prevent infections. After planting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light until the new plant has established roots.
Seeds
Seeds can also be used to propagate Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln., though this method can be more challenging and time-consuming. The seeds need to be sown in well-draining soil mix and kept moist and warm (around 70°F) until they germinate, which can take several weeks to months. Once the seedlings have produced several leaves, they can be transplanted into separate pots with fresh soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Haworthia Schuldtiana Poelln. var. Sublaevis Poelln.
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is an evergreen, succulent plant that makes a perfect indoor plant with its small size and attractive appearance. However, like most plants, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Therefore, it is essential to know the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them to ensure its healthy growth.
Common Diseases
One of the most prevalent diseases that affect Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is root rot. Root rot occurs due to overwatering and poorly drained soil. Fungal infections like fusarium and pythium cause the roots to brown, turn mushy, and smell foul. To prevent root rot, make sure that the soil is well-drained and allows water to flow out quickly.
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is also susceptible to leaf spot diseases, especially when the plant is in humid or wet conditions. The fungi and bacteria that cause leaf spots can create yellow lesions on the leaves, and in severe cases, the leaves may curl and fall off. To manage leaf spot diseases, remove infected leaves and avoid overwatering.
Common Pests
Spider mites are one of the most common pests that attack Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. These tiny pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to appear yellow and stippled. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil and wash the plant with water regularly.
Mealybugs are another pest that commonly affects Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. These pests look like white, fuzzy cotton balls and feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves and stunt plant growth. To control mealybugs, remove them manually or spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. is a beautiful plant that is easy to grow and maintain. But, like all plants, it is prone to diseases and pests that can damage its growth and appearance. By being aware of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and implementing proper disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure the healthy growth of your Haworthia schuldtiana Poelln. var. sublaevis Poelln. plant.
