How to plant Zebra cactus plant (Haworthia fasciata)

Haworthia fasciata (Zebra cactus plant) is a plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. This small succulent plant grows to form a dense rosette.

Its leaves are thick, triangular and pointed, with some small light colors that look like zebra stripes on a dark green background. This is the obvious reason why the common name of this plant is zebra cactus.

Plant profile

Haworthia fasciata is a fleshy species with easy cultivation, which comes from the Cape Province in South Africa. In their natural habitat they receive a lot of light and spend long periods without rain. Its fleshy leaves store water in order to withstand long periods of drought.

It has excellent characteristics for making miniature arrangements combined with other succulents. It is a common plant in homes and offices and a perfect choice for terrariums.

Zebra cactus plant in a display with cactus

Light

Haworthia Fasciata requires good lighting and even some direct light. A good spot for them indoors is in a window sill.

Temperature

Zebra cactus plant supports high temperatures during growing season. In winter, the temperature should be lower so they can have their dormance period, but not under 10ºC.

How often should I water Zebra cactus plant?

The ideal is to do a regular watering in the summer and little in the winter, taking care to always leave the soil dry out between waterings.
Do not wet the leaves, water the soil around the plant. Succulent are suitable for dry environments, withstands to water shortages and excess water can lead to root rot and kill the plant in days.

How to plant Zebra cactus?

Haworthia Fasciata is a slow growing succulent, as rosettes form new leaves very slowly it only needs to be ocasionally transplanted.
When necessary, transplant to a larger pot with a cactus compost or a substrate rich in organic matter but mixed with a lot of grit or sharp sand to improve drainage.
Well draining soil is the most important thing to consider when planting succulents and cacti.

Zebra cactus plant flower tip

Pests and diseases

Haworthia fasciata is a very resistant plant and rarely affected by pests and diseases. It can occasionally be attacked by aphids, which can be easily removed with a brush.

How to propagate Zebra cactus plant?

Propagation of zebra cactus plant is done by separating side shoots that grow around the plant. Remove the shoots taking part of the roots and plant them individually. Autumn or spring is the best time to do this.

We have a complete step by step guide full of pictures on how to propagate zebra cactus plant, just follow the link.

Care

Keep Haworthia Fasciata leaves free of dust. Clean them with a thick brush with soft hair from time to time.

When the leaves show dry tips it is a sign of excessive sun and a dry atmosphere. Water the plant and reduce the time of direct sunlight.

If the plant shows pale leaves they are lacking light. Place plant in a location with better lighting.

Zebra cactus plant indoor in a white ceramic pot

Flowering

Haworthia Fasciata usually blooms in summer with numerous small white flowers, which opens little.