Haworthia truncata (ha-WORTH-ee-a, trunk-AH-tuh) is a succulent plant species in the Haworthia genus and Asphodelaceae family.
Learn more about the fascinating world of Haworthia Succulent Plant Care.
This perennial is indigenous to Calitzdorp, South Africa.
The haworthia species are widely distributed in a South African region, known as the Little Karoo in the east of the Western Cape.
The first half of the name “Haworthia” is named in honor of a 19th-century British botanist – Hardy Haworth.
The specific epithet truncata or second part of the plant’s name refers to the upper surface of the leaf’s end which appears as if it has been cut off or “truncated,” hence the name “truncate.”
A few common names of Haworthia Truncata Succulents are:
- Horse’s Teeth
- Perdetande
- Lithops (more on true Lithops plants)
- Maughanii
Haworthia Truncata Succulents Care
Growth and Size
Haworthia truncata is a slow-growing small succulent with a warty surface, heightening up to 3″ to 5″ inches.
This desert species typically spread in thick clusters in opposite rows.
It has flat rectangular stemless segments in a lime green color, and variegated leaves also called the windowed leaves.
The plant displays these unusual features from late summer to fall.
Flowering and Fragrance
This unique plant species forms inflorescence stalks up to 12” inches tall.
When in full bloom, usually in summer, the succulent produces barely visible white loose flowers.
The blossoms do not evoke any scent.
Light and Temperature
Haworthia truncata develops best in full sun or light shade.
The green cactus is capable of coping with light frost.
However, it is better not to expose the succulent to below 41° degrees Fahrenheit (5° C).
The ideal temperature for the growth of maughanii is from 75° to 90° degrees Fahrenheit (24° – 32° C).
The USDA United States hardiness zone of the Haworthia truncata is 10a to 11b.
Watering and Feeding
The miniature plant prefers frequent watering in spring, summer, and fall.
However, the plant needs little to no watering in the cold, chilly months.
In winter, water the soil just enough to protect the roots from getting damaged.
Avoid overwatering to keep the succulent happy and healthy.
Apply nitrogen-based fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
Make sure the fertilizer is made for cactus and has all the necessary nutrients.
Soil and Transplanting
This succulent is prone to root rot. Thus, it prefers sandy and gritty soil to prevent the plant from staying wet. Check out our articles on making your own Cactus Soil or Succulent Soil.
Some botanists recommend mixing coarse sand into the soil surface to offer good drainage.
The soil may also contain crushed stones such as decomposed granite or chick grit.
Every year, the roots of the plant die and start to rot.
If the plant is not transferred into a new pot, the entire plant may die.
Therefore, the cacti should be repotted every year or two.
Make sure to use a deep container or pot to retain long, tender roots safely.
Grooming and Maintenance
It is important to keep the plant dry in winter.
To achieve the desired result, the plant’s crown should be dressed with pea gravel.
Always provide maximum sun exposure to the plant in spring, summer, and fall.
If growing indoors, place it in a bright spot, where the cactus receives maximum sunshine.
To keep the root system healthy, fertilize the desert plant in spring and fall.
Popular Haworthia Varieties To Collect:
- Haworthia cooperi (Cushion Aloe)
- Haworthia fasciata (now named Haworthiopsis fasciata)
- Haworthia attenuata (Zebra cactus)
- Haworthia cymbiformis (Cathedral window)
How to Propagate Horse’s Teeth Succulent
Haworthia truncata is not difficult to grow by propagation.
The species can grow from seeds or by leaf cuttings.
In the leaf-cutting method, cut a small length of the leaf tips and place it in a warm, well-shaded area for two weeks.
Next, plant the cutting in well-drained potting soil.
This technique takes time to produce new growths as compared to seed propagation.
When propagating through seeds, always sow the cactus seeds in an excellent seedling mix with coarse sand.
Keep the pot cool and moist for a month and then grow the plant in full sun.
Be sure to mist the plant on alternate days.
Horse’s Teeth Succulent Pests and Diseases
The closed rosette of the leaves is often where harmful pests reside.
Some of the most common insects prone to damaging the unconventional cactus are:
- Scale insects
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
In the case of an insect infestation, treat the plant with the right insecticide as quickly as possible. We usually start with Neem oil insecticide.
Excessive watering often leads to root rot and a fungal attack by crassa.
To prevent the plant from suffering this life-threatening disease, keep an eye on your plants and keep succulent Haworthia plants on the dry side.
Haworthia Truncata Succulents Uses
This exceptional Haworthia succulent plant features a unique leaf shape and a compact size, all of which make it an attractive decorative species in the garden and windowsill.
During the bloom time, the plant offers nectar to pollinators such as bees and makes the space come alive with its unique beauty.