James H. Schutte
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
HAWORTHIA margaritifera
Plant Common Name
Haworthia, Pearl Plant
General Description
The largest member of the genus Haworthia, pearl plant looks like an aloe due to its relatively large rosettes of spotted, pointed leaves. This frost-tender, succulent perennial is native to southwestern South Africa where it receives rainfall mainly in winter. It grows from a fleshy, fibrous root system and slowly creates a cluster of plants in a pointy, mounded clump.
The plump, long, pointed leaves are rigid and succulent. They emerge from the center of the rosette. Each leaf is bright to olive-green, but winter chill or excessive drought stress will cause them to blush red. On the outer side of the leaves, hundreds of greenish-white bumps (tubercles) decorate the surface, making them look ornately spotted. A mature rosette produces an upright, wiry stem carrying tiny brownish-white tubular flowers in early summer.
Grow haworthia in any sandy, fast-draining soil that is slightly moist during the growing season. Soil should be drier during the winter months. A non-acid soil is ideal as is partial sun to bright filtered shade. Excessive sun and very dry soil causes leaves to turn red, curl and eventually dry out and die. Low ambient humidity is needed for best health. Plant this haworthia in frost-free shady rock gardens or patio containers. They also make great houseplants.
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, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
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Sun Exposure
Partial Shade
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Height
7"-9" / 17.8cm - 22.9cm
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Width
8"-12" / 20.3cm - 30.5cm
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Bloom Time
Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer
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Native To
Southern Africa, South Africa
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
White, Sandy Brown
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Foliage Color (Spring)
White, Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Spring) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Summer)
White, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Fall)
White, Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Winter)
White, Red, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter) Modifier
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
Coarse
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
