Haworthia limifolia f. variegata

Botanical Name —  Haworthia limifolia f. variegata

Common Name —  Fairy washboard,  File Leafed Haworthia

Plant Family —  Asphodelaceae

Background

Haworthia limifolia f. variegata  is endemic to Southeastern Africa.  This variety is highly collectable due to its cream and green variegation on it’s triangular shaped leaves which resemble a pinwheel when viewed from above.  Their rosette shape can grow up to 4 inches and will eventually produce small plantlets which can be propagated into new plants. 

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Growth Requirements

Sun

• Haworthia limifolia f. variegata prefers bright indirect light to maintain its variegation.  It can tolerate a small amount of direct sunlight.

Temperature/ Humidity 

• Haworthia can tolerate high temperatures in the 70s and 80s or higher. They are not cold hardy, however. Avoid temperatures below 50 ºF. 

Water

• In the spring and summer months, water them thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. Always allow the soil to dry out completely in between waterings. 
• If you are unsure whether or not the soil is dry, wait a few days before watering. It is much better to underwater than overwater. Excessive moisture can quickly lead to root rot.
• In the winter, ease up on watering even more and keep the humidity low.

Soil/Roots

• Fairy washboard grows best in a fast draining soil mix. Use cacti or succulent soil, or amend potting soil with sand or pumice up to 50% to improve drainage.

Flowering

• The plant sends out tall spikes with small white flowers in Autumn.

Fertilization

• Haworthias do not require fertilization. If you want to give them a boost, it is ok to fertilize sparingly, no more than once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength, or one specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
• Haworthias are winter growers and are dormant in the hottest summer months.

Propagation

• Haworthia are easily propagated by the removal of offshoots or by leaf cuttings. 

Health

Diseases

• Haworthia are not especially prone to pests and diseases. Root rot can easily occur if the plant is overwatered. Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealybugs and scale. 

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• Little to no maintenance is required to care for Haworthia plants. Repotting should be done infrequently as Aloe have shallow root systems and prefer to be root bound. Once every two to three years up-pot aloe into a container about two inches larger in diameter. 

Toxicity

• Haworthia limifolia f. variegata is not known to be toxic to pets or humans.