Haworthia Truncata

Haworthia truncata, commonly known as horse's teeth, is a succulent plant species belonging to the genus Haworthia. It is native to the Little Karoo region, located in the far eastern part of the Western Cape Province in South Africa.

Haworthia truncata is one of my favorite! I've owned several of them and successfully propagated them into smaller plants. I can't wait to share with you about these horse teeth-shaped succulents.

Contents

1. Quick Facts about Haworthia Truncata
2. Appearance of Haworthia Truncata
   1. Leaves
   2. Flowers
3. Varieties
   1. Haworthia truncata var. truncata
   2. Haworthia truncata var. maughanii
   3. Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green'
4. Fragrance of Haworthia Truncata
5. Toxicity
   1. For Humans
   2. For Animals
6. How to Propagate Haworthia Truncata
   1. Offset Division
   2. Leaf Cuttings
   3. Division
7. Care Guide For Haworthia Truncata
   1. Sunlight
   2. Water
   3. Temperature
   4. Soil
   5. Air Humidity
   6. Fertilizing
   7. Repotting
   8. Pruning
8. Common Problems of Haworthia Truncata
   1. Pests
   2. Diseases

Quick Facts about Haworthia Truncata

• Native Habitat: Little Karoo, Western Cape, South Africa
• Family: Asphodelaceae
• Water: Requires well-draining soil. It should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Sunlight: Bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause sunburn or damage the leaves. It is best to provide it with bright, filtered light.
• Soil: Well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A mixture of cactus potting soil or succulent soil with perlite or pumice for added drainage is ideal.

Appearance of Haworthia Truncata

Leaves

The leaves of Haworthia truncata are thick and succulent, arranged in a rosette-like pattern. They have a truncated shape, resembling a square or rectangle with rounded corners. The leaf tips are often translucent, allowing light to pass through. The coloration of the leaves varies, with shades of green, brown, or gray, and sometimes displaying interesting patterns such as stripes or spots. The leaves also have prominent raised ridges or tubercles, adding to their intriguing texture.

Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green', big crest [Source]

Flowers

Haworthia truncata produces small, tubular flowers on long, slender stalks called inflorescences. The flowers are usually white or pale pink in color, and they emerge from the center of the rosette of leaves. The inflorescences can reach a height of several inches, and multiple flowers may bloom simultaneously. The flowering period typically occurs during the spring or summer months.

While the flowers are not the main focal point of this plant, they add a delicate and charming touch to its overall appearance.

Flower of Haworthia truncata [Source]

Varieties

Haworthia truncata var. truncata

Haworthia truncata var. truncata is the standard variety of Haworthia truncata.

It has the classic truncated leaf shape that gives the species its name. The leaves form a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, creating a distinct and visually appealing appearance. The leaf coloration can vary, ranging from green to gray or brown, and the translucent tips allow light to pass through, giving them a unique translucent quality. This variety is widely cultivated and appreciated for its fascinating leaf structure and overall beauty.

Haworthia truncata [Source]

Haworthia truncata var. maughanii

The variety known as Haworthia truncata var. maughanii exhibits unique features in comparison to the more common type variety. It is naturally found in a limited area near Calitzdorp, situated to the far west of the natural range of Haworthia truncata.

Unlike the typical variety, the leaves of Haworthia truncata var. maughanii grow in a spiral rosette rather than a distichous row arrangement. This variety showcases rounded leaves that form a distinctive triangular shape, wider at the base and tapering towards the tip. The leaf coloration varies from green to brown, with translucent tips that may display reddish or purplish hues. Due to its exceptional leaf shape and coloration,

Haworthia truncata var. maughanii is highly sought after by collectors.

Haworthia truncata var. maughanii [Source]

I visited a greenhouse in Japan, and Haworthia truncata var. maughanii was part of the collection. Check out this video I recorded 📹.

Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green'

Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green' is a cultivar or selected variety of Haworthia truncata that is known for its unique lime green coloration. This cultivar retains the characteristic truncated leaf shape of the species but with a vibrant lime green hue that distinguishes it from the typical green or grayish coloration of the species.

The leaves of Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green' are thick, succulent, and arranged in a rosette-like pattern. They have a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, creating an aesthetically pleasing and compact appearance. The leaf tips are often translucent, allowing light to pass through and adding an interesting visual element to the plant.

Haworthia truncata 'Lime Green' from my own collection

Note: Haworthia cooperi var truncata is - NOT a kind of Haworthia truncata.

Haworthia cooperi var. truncata is not the same as Haworthia truncata.

While both plants belong to the Haworthia genus and share some similarities, they are distinct species with different characteristics. Haworthia cooperi var. truncata is a variety of Haworthia cooperi, which is a separate species from Haworthia truncata.

The varietal name "truncata" refers to the truncated or square-shaped leaves of Haworthia cooperi var. truncata, distinguishing it from other varieties of Haworthia cooperi that may have different leaf shapes or characteristics.

Haworthia cooperi var truncata [Source]

Fragrance of Haworthia Truncata

Haworthia truncata does not typically possess a noticeable fragrance.

Unlike some other plant species that produce fragrant blooms or emit aromatic scents from their leaves or stems, Haworthia truncata is primarily appreciated for its unique and visually appealing appearance rather than its fragrance.

Toxicity

For Humans

Haworthia truncata is considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is generally safe to handle and touch.

However, it's always a good practice to wash hands after handling any plant to avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions. Ingesting the plant in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, but it is unlikely to result in severe poisoning. As with any plant, it is recommended to keep it out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

For Animals

Haworthia truncata is generally non-toxic to animals, including cats and dogs.

While it is not considered highly poisonous, it's still a good precaution to keep pets from ingesting the plant. Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If any unusual symptoms occur after ingestion, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for proper guidance.

How to Propagate Haworthia Truncata

Haworthia truncata can be propagated through various methods, including offsets (pups), leaf cuttings, and division. Here are the steps to propagate Haworthia truncata:

Offset Division

Haworthia truncata produces offsets, also known as pups, around the base of the mother plant. To propagate using offsets:

• Carefully remove the offset from the mother plant using a clean, sharp knife or by gently twisting it away from the base.
• Allow the offset to dry for a day or two to allow the wound to callous over.
• Once the cut has calloused, plant the offset in a small pot filled with well-draining soil suitable for succulents.
• Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Leaf Cuttings

Haworthia truncata can be propagated from individual leaves. Here's how:

• Select a healthy, mature leaf from the mother plant.
• Gently twist or cut the leaf from the base, ensuring that a clean cut is made.
• Allow the leaf to dry and callous over for a few days.
• Once calloused, place the leaf on top of well-draining soil or partially bury the leaf base in the soil, ensuring it is upright.
• Place the pot in a well-lit area with indirect sunlight.
• Mist the soil occasionally to keep it slightly moist but avoid overwatering.
• After several weeks, small plantlets should start to emerge from the base of the leaf. Once the plantlets have grown a few inches tall, they can be gently transplanted into individual pots.

Division

If your Haworthia truncata has multiple heads or clumps, you can divide the plant to create new individual plants.

• Carefully remove the entire plant from its pot, handling it gently to avoid damaging the roots or leaves.
• Inspect the plant to identify natural separations or divisions between individual heads or clumps.
• Using a clean, sharp knife or your hands, separate the heads, ensuring that each division has its own roots intact.
• Allow the divisions to dry and callous over for a day or two.
• Plant each division in a separate pot filled with well-draining soil.
• Place the pots in a location with bright, indirect light and water sparingly until new growth appears.

Remember to provide appropriate care, including adequate light, well-draining soil, and controlled watering, to ensure successful propagation and healthy growth of the new Haworthia truncata plants.

Care Guide For Haworthia Truncata

Sunlight

Haworthia truncata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It prefers several hours of bright light each day but should be protected from intense, direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. A south or east-facing window with filtered light is ideal for indoor cultivation.

Water

Haworthia truncata is adapted to survive in arid conditions. It is crucial not to overwater this plant to avoid root rot. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Water sparingly, ensuring that excess water drains away from the pot. During the winter months, when the plant is in a period of dormancy, water even less frequently.

Temperature

Haworthia truncata prefers moderate temperatures ranging between 65°F (18°C) and 80°F (27°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, down to 50°F (10°C), but it is best to protect it from frost or extreme heat. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations as it can stress the plant.

Soil

Use well-draining soil specifically formulated for cacti and succulents or create a mix by combining regular potting soil with perlite or pumice to enhance drainage. The soil should allow excess water to flow through easily, preventing waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.

Air Humidity

Haworthia truncata is adapted to arid environments and does not require high humidity.

Average room humidity levels are usually sufficient for its growth. However, if the air in your home is excessively dry, especially during winter months or in heated indoor environments, you can provide a slight boost in humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

Fertilizing

Haworthia truncata is a slow-growing plant and does not require frequent fertilization. During the growing season, which typically spans from spring to summer, you can feed the plant with a diluted, balanced succulent or cactus fertilizer once a month. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the proper dilution ratio.

Repotting

Haworthia truncata generally does not require frequent repotting and is content in a slightly crowded container. Repot the plant only when it outgrows its current pot, usually every two to three years. When repotting, use a slightly larger pot with adequate drainage holes and fresh well-draining soil.

Pruning

Pruning requirements for Haworthia truncata are minimal.

Remove any dried or withered leaves by gently pulling them away from the base of the plant. This helps maintain a tidy appearance and prevents decaying material from affecting the overall health of the plant. Be cautious while handling the leaves, as they can be delicate and easily damaged.

Need tools for succulent propagation and repotting? Here are my go-to tools: mini tool set (including syringe 💉, gloves 🧤, tweezers 🪤, dust blower 💨, tiny shovels 🛠️) and well-draining mix 🌱.

Common Problems of Haworthia Truncata

Pests

Haworthia truncata is generally resistant to pests, but it can occasionally encounter some common insect pests. The most common pests that may affect this plant include:

• Mealybugs: These small, cottony insects may appear as white, waxy clusters on the leaves or in the plant's crevices. They feed on the sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
• Scale Insects: Scale insects often attach themselves to the leaves or stems, appearing as small bumps or scales. They feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, leaf drop, and overall weakening of the plant.
• Spider Mites: These tiny, spider-like pests are difficult to see without magnification. They typically infest the undersides of the leaves, causing yellow spots and webbing. Heavy infestations can lead to leaf damage and discoloration.

To combat these pests, a mild insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used to control infestations. It's important to follow the instructions on the product label and ensure thorough coverage of the affected areas. Regular inspection of the plant, especially in hard-to-reach areas, can help identify and treat pest problems early on.

Diseases

Haworthia truncata is generally resilient and less susceptible to diseases. However, improper care practices can lead to certain issues, such as:

• Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause the roots to become waterlogged, leading to root rot. This can result in wilting, yellowing, or mushy leaves. To prevent root rot, ensure the plant is potted in well-draining soil and water only when the soil has dried out.
• Leaf Spot: Fungal infections or bacterial pathogens can cause leaf spot, resulting in small, discolored spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Remove and dispose of any infected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Fungal Rots: Excessive moisture combined with poor air circulation can create a favorable environment for fungal diseases, leading to rotting of the plant's stem or leaves. To prevent fungal rots, ensure the plant is placed in a well-ventilated area, avoid overwatering, and maintain proper hygiene by removing any decaying plant material.

It's essential to maintain proper care practices, including providing adequate sunlight, appropriate watering, and well-draining soil, to keep Haworthia truncata healthy and minimize the risk of pest infestations and diseases. Regular monitoring and prompt action can help address any problems that may arise and ensure the plant's overall well-being.