Overview
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker, commonly known as the lizard tail Haworthia, is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can thrive in a variety of climates, making it a popular ornamental plant worldwide.
Appearance
The lizard tail Haworthia is a small succulent that grows up to 3 inches tall and 4 inches wide. It has fleshy, pointed leaves that are green in color and covered in white tubercles, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. The leaves form tight rosettes that can eventually grow into large clumps over time. The plant also produces small, white flowers on a tall, thin stalk that rises above the foliage.
Common names
The lizard tail Haworthia has several common names, including the tough-leaved Haworthia, the hard-leaved Haworthia, and the sticky Haworthia. These names refer to the plant's thick, durable leaves and its slightly sticky, textured surface.
Uses
The lizard tail Haworthia is primarily grown for ornamental purposes, as it is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in many different environments. It is often grown in containers or as part of a group of succulents, and can be used as a groundcover or filler plant in outdoor landscapes. Some people also use the plant as a natural remedy for skin conditions, as the leaves are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker, prefers bright but indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves causing them to turn brown. It can thrive in indoor environments provided they have bright light, making it a good choice for keeping in a sunny windowsill.
Temperature Requirements
These plants require warm temperatures and do not tolerate frost. The ideal temperature range for Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker is between 16°C to 27°C (60°F to 80°F). During winter, it is important to keep them away from cold drafts and maintain a consistent temperature.
Soil Requirements
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker, prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Soil that retains too much moisture can cause root rot, so a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss is typically recommended. Additionally, it is important to ensure the pot has drainage holes to help prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation Method
In the cultivation of Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker, it is essential to plant them in a suitable potting mix that is well-draining and contains a high percentage of coarse sand or gravel. The plant thrives well in diffused sunlight, and it is best to have the pot placed in a well-ventilated area to avoid humidity. The plant can do well both indoors and outdoors.
Watering Needs
Watering Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker can be a little tricky. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and underwatering can stunt growth and even cause the leaves to wither. Water should be given moderately, only when the soil is completely dry, and care should be exercised to avoid water getting directly on the leaves. However, when watering, give enough water to wet the soil thoroughly and let the excess water drain before returning the plant to its original position.
Fertilization
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker requires low levels of fertilizer, so it should only be fertilized about once or twice a year. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer mixed with the potting mix will provide necessary nutrients for the plant to thrive. However, after fertilization, it is best to avoid direct sunlight for a few days.
Pruning
Pruning is only necessary when the plant becomes too crowded or when it is necessary to remove damaged leaves. To carry out pruning, use a sharp, sterilized pruning shear to cut off the unwanted leaves. Ensure not to cut the healthy leaves, and the cut area should be sprinkled with sulfur powder to prevent infection.
Propagation of Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker is a succulent plant that can be propagated using various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker is through seed propagation. Seeds are available in most garden centres and online stores. When propagating through seeds, it is important to ensure proper soil moisture and temperature for germination. The seeds can be sown in a soil mix of sand, compost, and peat with good drainage. The ideal temperature for seed germination is around 21°C to 25°C.
Leaf Cutting Propagation
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker can also be propagated through leaf cutting. A healthy leaf from a mature plant is cut and left to dry for a few days to allow the cut surface to callus over. The callused leaf can be inserted into a mix of sand and peat moss. It is important that the mix is kept moist but not too wet. The cutting should be placed in a bright spot but not in direct sunlight. After a few weeks, small roots should start to develop from the cut surface and a new plant will start to grow.
Offshoot Propagation
Another method of propagation is through offshoots or pups. This is where new plants form at the base of the mature plant, and can be removed and potted independently. This method of propagation is most commonly used with mature plants, and the offshoots can be rooted in a mix of sand, compost, and peat with good drainage.
Overall, Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker can be propagated using different methods, but it is important to follow the proper procedures and care to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker is prone to several diseases that can damage the plant's growth and development. Here are a few common diseases and tips on how to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal infection that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots can quickly spread, causing the leaves to fall off. To control leaf spot, it's important to remove any infected leaves and improve air circulation by spacing out the plants. Fungicides may also be used, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the roots becoming waterlogged and eventually dying. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves and a foul smell emanating from the soil. To control root rot, it's important to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Using a well-draining soil mix and avoiding waterlogging can help prevent root rot.
Pest Management
Haworthia viscosa (L.) Haw. var. indurata (Haw.) Baker is also susceptible to attacks from several pests that can damage the plant's growth and health. Here are a few common pests and tips on how to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are tiny white insects that feed on the plant sap and leave a sticky residue on the leaves. They also attract ants, which can further damage the plant. To control mealybugs, wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can be effective. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. They often thrive in dry conditions, so increasing humidity can help manage infestations. Spraying the plant with water and using insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help control spider mites.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped bugs that attach themselves to the plant and suck its sap. This can cause the plant to weaken and the leaves to fall off. To manage scale insects, rubbing them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can be effective. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
