Haworthia
Haworthia spp. (notably Haworthia attenuata and Haworthia cooperi)
Haworthias are small, ornamental succulents from South Africa admired for their intricately patterned, windowed, or banded leaves. Their delicate white flowers and jewel-like appearance make them symbols of precision, inner light, and quiet grace.
Asphodelaceae (formerly Aloaceae)
Summer, typically from May to August; some species bloom intermittently throughout the year
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: fenestrarias and chrysogonums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Haworthia has become a beloved icon of contemporary plant culture worldwide, particularly in Japan and South Korea where rare or unusually patterned varieties command high prices and are considered collector's treasures. In Japan, the concept of admiring small, perfectly formed natural objects resonates deeply with haworthia's jewel-like appearance. The "windowed" species like Haworthia cooperi, whose translucent leaf tips allow light to pass into the plant for photosynthesis, have become a metaphor for finding clarity and inner light. Their small stature and precise patterning appeal to those who appreciate quiet, refined beauty.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; tolerates lower light than most succulents; avoid harsh direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves
Water
Water every 2-3 weeks in the growing season; allow soil to dry completely before watering again; water very sparingly in winter
Soil
Well-draining sandy or gritty mix, Cactus and succulent potting mix, Mineral-rich mix with pumice or perlite
Expert Growing Tips
Avoid direct harsh afternoon sun; an east-facing or shaded south-facing window is ideal indoors
Use a well-draining succulent mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
Water sparingly and always check that the soil is completely dry before watering again
Haworthias rarely need fertilizing; a very diluted succulent fertilizer once in spring is sufficient
Propagate by separating offsets (pups) that form around the base; allow the cut to callous for a day before potting
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Desktop and windowsill houseplant
- Terrarium and fairy garden feature
- Miniature succulent dish garden
- Low-maintenance office plant
- Collector's plant for succulent enthusiasts
Traditional Uses
- No significant documented medicinal uses; grown primarily as an ornamental plant
- Some South African communities use related Asphodelaceae plants in traditional medicine, but haworthia specifically is not a medicinal species
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Haworthia
how often does haworthia flower?
Haworthia typically blooms in summer, producing a tall, wiry flower spike with small white or cream tubular flowers. Some species bloom intermittently throughout the year. The flowers are small and delicate compared to the plant but are still a welcome sign of a happy, healthy plant.
can haworthia grow in low light?
Yes, haworthia is one of the most adaptable succulents for indoor low-light conditions. While it prefers bright indirect light, it can survive and even grow in rooms with limited natural light. It is an excellent choice for offices and rooms with north or east-facing windows.
why is haworthia called a zebra plant?
Haworthia attenuata and Haworthia fasciata are commonly called zebra plants or zebra cacti because of the distinctive white horizontal stripes or raised white bumps (tubercles) on their dark green leaves, which resemble the stripes of a zebra.
is haworthia safe for cats and dogs?
Yes, haworthia is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it one of the safest succulents to keep in a pet-friendly home. Unlike its relative aloe vera, haworthia does not contain the compounds that are harmful to animals.
what does a haworthia flower symbolize?
Haworthia flowers symbolize clarity, inner light, and quiet grace. Their transparent "windowed" leaves, which channel sunlight internally, have become a metaphor for seeing clearly and finding light within, resonating strongly in contemporary plant culture in Japan and South Korea.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Fenestraria
Fenestraria rhopalophylla
Fenestraria is a remarkable miniature succulent from the Namib Desert that grows almost entirely underground, exposing only its transparent leaf tips to collect light. Its cheerful daisy-like flowers symbolize inner light, clarity, and the triumph of life in impossible conditions.
Chrysogonum
Chrysogonum virginianum
Chrysogonum is a native North American groundcover with bright golden star-shaped flowers. It symbolizes hope, optimism, and the enduring light that guides through darkness.
Eremurus
Eremurus spp.
Eremurus produces dramatic, tall spikes of densely packed star-shaped flowers that create stunning vertical accents in the garden, resembling giant bottle brushes or fox tails.