Haworthia fasciata (haw-WORTH-ee-uh fass-ee-AY-tuh) now named Haworthiopsis fasciata is a succulent plant, native to South Africa shrub lands.
Haworthia plants are often compared to Ox Tongue plants (Gasteria) and sometimes even confused with Aloe plants.
However, it is not surprising, like Aloes, Haworthia fasciata belongs to the Asphodeloideae family.
These plants have thick, dark green leaves with horizontal zebra stripes or bumps of white tubercles on the outer surface of the leaves.
Owing to this distinctive and beautiful foliage, these plants earned the common names of:
- Zebra plant
- Zebra cactus
- Zebra Haworthia
The inside of the leaves is plain and smooth. Like most other succulents, Haworthias are low maintenance.
Fasciata is drought tolerant storing water in their thick and stiff leaves.
Caring For Haworthia fasciata
Size & Growth
The zebra plant is a relatively small plant. It grows in a rosette which can reach to around 5″ – 8” inches in height.
Generally, these plants grow actively during the spring and fall yet are considered one of the slower growing species.
The green triangular leaves are clustered together giving the plant a “Zebra” effect.
Flowering and Fragrance
H. fasciata is a flowering plant producing white flowers usually during the spring.
Some plants also bloom during the summer months.
Well grown zebra plants produce inflorescence (long stems) during the flowering season.
These stems bear tiny stripped green and white flowers in color with no fragrance.
Keep in mind zebra fasciata cactus can experience have a hard time breaking out into full bloom when it is grown indoors.
Light & Temperature
These zebra plants enjoy locations receiving a lot of bright light but no direct sunlight.
They do well in medium to high light. Therefore, when grown as a houseplant, it is generally advisable to keep them near east or south windows that receive loads of natural light.
During the summer, the ideal room temperatures for Haworthia fasciata ranges from 60° to 85° degrees Fahrenheit. They will tolerate high heat levels.
As the temperature drops; it is important to make sure that the temperature does not drop below 50° degrees Fahrenheit to ensure plant health.
Watering and Feeding
Haworthia fasciata requires water in moderation.
During the summer, water the plant thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Be careful to avoid overwatering.
As these plants can store water in their leaves, reduce watering as the temperature starts to drop and allow the soil at the top to dry out.
When zebra cactus is grown in a terrarium, only use fertilizer once every 4 – 6 months.
Otherwise, applying liquid fertilizer every 2 – 3 months is enough to provide these plants with the nutrients for proper health and growth.
No need to fertilize the zebra plant during winter. Keep humidity low, around 10% or lower, at all times.
More in our article –> How To Water Succulents
Soil & Transplanting
Zebra fasciata grows best in a cactus potting mix that drains well.
A mixture of equal part perlite, potting soil, and sand is also a viable alternative.
When plants outgrow their pot, transplant during the spring season.
It is advisable to move the succulent Haworthia to only a slightly bigger pot.
Generally, these plants need to be repotted every two years into a new cactus mix.
Grooming and Maintenance
Once the flowers fade, groom by cutting off the flower stems.
How to Propagate Zebra Fasciata Cactus
Succulent zebra plants propagate easily – the same as Aloe plants.
Take cuttings from the mother plant, no longer than just a couple of inches long.
Let them dry for a few days, allowing the wound to heal, before planting.
Haworthia plants also produce offsets. Simply remove the baby plants from parent and replant in their own individual pots.
Irrespective of the propagation method, make sure not to overwater the plant.
Water sparingly, and allow the soil to dry afterward.
Zebra Fasciata Pest or Disease Problems
The most common problem encountered by the zebra plant is scale insects and at times spider mites.
These scale bugs stick to the leaves, robbing the plant of the essential nutrients.
If the plant is attacked, the easiest way to handle this problem is to spray the affected plant using a good-quality pesticide.
Learn how to control problems with succulent disease and pests
Uses For Fasciata Zebra Plant
Haworthia plants make excellent additions to desert dish-gardens.
Displaying these plants on windowsills in small pots is another way to appreciate the beautiful foliage of this extraordinary succulent as it thrives and flourish.
Haworthias are non-toxic making them excellent starter plants for kids.