Mark A. Miller
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
HAWORTHIA arachnoidea var. xiphiophylla
Plant Common Name
Haworthia, Rough-spined Haworthia
Special Notice
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
General Description
A leathery, fleshy rosette with ivory, spider leg-like spines describes the rough-spined haworthia. A frost-tender perennial succulent, it is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa. It grows in arid habitats, usually protected from intense sun rays under the branches of shrubs. Rough-spined haworthia slowly develops into a small cluster of rosettes after many years.
The rosette comprises dozens or scores of pointed succulent green leaves. Each is lined with white to tan, sparse spines that look like hair. The pointed tips of each leaf often partially dies from drought stress and turn golden brown. Younger plants tend to display pure white spines, while the oldest plants have deeper tan-colored spines. Flowers occur on thin upright stems. They are small and white and numerous, lining the stem. Seeds are produced after pollination, and are a good way to propagate the plant.
Grow rough-spined haworthia in sandy, fast-draining soil that is barely but evenly moist. A non-acid soil is ideal. Partial to dappled sun is best, particularly a site with brief morning sun followed by very bright, indirect light the rest of the day. Excessive sun exposure causes leaves to scald, brown and die. Wet soil quickly causes root and stem rot, especially during chilly winter months. Low ambient humidity is always needed. Where hardy, plant the rough-spined haworthia as a shady rock garden accent among rocks or in patio containers. It also fares well as a houseplant if provided bright, filtered light, light water and sandy potting mix.
Numerous naturally occurring varieties exist of the rough-spined haworthia across its native South African range. They vary in leaf color or shape, or the density or length of the spines.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
10 - 15
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Sunset Zone
15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
2"-5" / 5.1cm - 12.7cm
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Width
2"-7" / 5.1cm - 17.8cm
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Bloom Time
Indeterminate
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Native To
Southern Africa
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
White, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Light Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Spring) Modifier
Variegated, Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Light Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer) Modifier
Variegated, Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Light Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall) Modifier
Variegated, Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Light Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter) Modifier
Variegated, SpottedMottled
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
