Origin and Common Names
Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker, also commonly known as the "snake plant," "zebra cactus," or "pearls and lace," is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and the Haworthia genus. The "snake plant" moniker is quite misleading, as this species is not a member of the Sansevieria genus, which is commonly called the "snake plant."
Uses
Haworthia tessellata is primarily cultivated as a decorative and ornamental plant. Its small size, unique shape, and attractive stripy leaves, make it an excellent choice for tabletops, shelves, and window sills. The plant is also easy to care for, making it ideal for beginners and those with limited space. The succulent nature of the plant means it can be grown indoors, outdoors, or in a container garden with minimal watering requirements.
General Appearance
The Haworthia tessellata is a small, slow-growing, stemless succulent plant. It typically reaches a maximum height of 12 cm (4.7 in) and has a diameter of 7 cm (2.8 in). The plant has a compact rosette form and consists of several tightly packed leaves arranged in a spiral. The leaves are triangular in shape with a pointed tip, have a slightly concave upper surface, and are covered with small bumps or tubercles that give them a rough texture. The leaf edges are smooth but have a pronounced white stripe that runs along the length of each leaf, giving the plant a unique striped look. The flowers of the Haworthia tessellata are small, white, and tubular, and are borne on a long inflorescence that grows from the center of the plant. The plant typically blooms in spring or early summer.
Light Requirements
The Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves of the plant. Place it near a window where it will receive bright, indirect light for several hours each day. Alternatively, you can grow it under fluorescent lights for at least 12 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker is a warm-loving plant that prefers temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the growing season. During the winter months, the plant will go into a dormant period and can withstand temperatures around 50°F (10°C). If temperatures drop below this level, it can result in leaf damage or death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker prefers well-draining soil that is mixed with peat moss or sand. Avoid heavy soils that retain moisture, as this can cause the roots to rot. A good potting mix would contain 50% perlite, 25% peat moss, and 25% sand.
Cultivation
Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker grows well in pots and containers, making it an ideal indoor plant. It prefers light shade to partial sunlight and well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. You can grow it in a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand.
Watering needs
Like many succulents, Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker requires little water. It can thrive in drought-like conditions and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and other diseases, so ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Fertilization
Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season as this can harm the plant. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker is not necessary as the plant maintains its shape and size. However, you can remove any dead leaves or spent flowers to keep the plant looking neat and tidy. Use a sharp, sterilized blade to prevent introducing diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker
Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker is a succulent plant that can be propagated by several methods, including division, leaf cuttings, and offsets.
Division
Division is a simple and effective propagation method for Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker. To propagate the plant using division, gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully separate the offsets from the main stem, ensuring that each offset has its own intact roots. Allow the offsets to dry in a shaded area for a day or two to prevent rot, before planting them in well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings
Another propagation method for Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker is leaf cuttings. To do this, carefully remove a leaf from the plant by gently pulling it from the stem. Allow the cut to callus over for a day before planting it in well-draining soil. The cutting should be watered sparingly until it has established roots.
Offsets
Offsets are also known as 'pups' or 'babies' and are small plantlets that grow from the base of the parent plant. These can be carefully removed from the parent plant and replanted in their own pots, using well-draining soil. Allow them to establish roots before watering.
Disease and Pest Management for Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker
Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it is not immune to diseases and pests. Knowing how to identify and manage these issues is crucial in ensuring the plant remains healthy and thrives. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and how to manage them:
Diseases:
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases, such as Fusarium and Pythium, can cause root rot in Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker. The symptoms of root rot include mushy and discolored roots, a foul smell, and wilting. To manage fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure the soil has proper drainage. You can also use a fungicide to treat infected plants.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases, such as soft rot, can cause the plant to become mushy and emit a foul odor. To manage bacterial diseases, remove and destroy infected plants, as the bacteria can easily spread to other plants. Ensure the plants have proper air circulation, and avoid overwatering.
Viral Diseases: Viral diseases are not common in Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker, but they can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases. To manage viral diseases, you must remove and destroy infected plants and ensure healthy plants are not in close proximity to infected plants.
Pests:
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests in Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker. They are small, white, and fluffy insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing it to become weak and stunted. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or a neem oil spray. Alternatively, you can wipe the bugs off manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that spin webs on the plant's leaves. They feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to become discolored and dry. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Alternatively, you can use a strong jet of water to blast the mites off the plant.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, brown or black insects that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves. They feed on the plant's sap, causing it to become weak and stunted. To manage scale insects, you can use a neem oil spray or an insecticidal soap. Alternatively, you can wipe the bugs off manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
By knowing how to identify and manage diseases and pests in Haworthia tessellata Haw. var. inflexa Baker, you can ensure the plant remains healthy and thrives. Regular inspection, hygiene, and proper cultural practices can help prevent these problems before they occur.
