Haworthiopsis coarctata

Haworthiopsis coarctata, formerly known as Haworthia coarctata, is a distinctive South African succulent with firm, pointed leaves covered in numerous small whitish tubercles. The form offered in this listing develops relatively open rosettes and offsets freely from around the base, gradually producing attractive rounded clusters containing numerous individual rosettes.

A naturally variable species

Haworthiopsis coarctata can vary considerably in growth habit and appearance. Some forms develop tightly stacked leaves on increasingly elongated stems, eventually producing the characteristic column-like growth often associated with the species. Other forms remain shorter and more open, producing numerous offsets and developing predominantly outwards rather than upwards.

The form offered in this listing belongs to this latter type. Although individual rosettes gradually become larger and may gain some height with age, they do not normally develop the tall, narrow columns seen in some forms of the species. Instead, they offset strongly around the base and gradually form broad, densely clustered mounds.

Textured green foliage

The firm, pointed leaves range from fresh green to deep green and are covered with numerous small raised whitish tubercles. These markings create an attractive spotted and textured appearance that becomes increasingly impressive as multiple rosettes develop together.

Foliage colour also responds to growing conditions. Plants grown in brighter conditions can develop bronze, reddish-brown or deeper brownish tones, while those receiving less intense light generally remain greener.

Clustering growth

One of the most attractive characteristics of this form is its tendency to produce numerous pups from around the base. These can be left attached, allowing the plant to gradually fill its pot and develop into a substantial rounded mound of overlapping rosettes.

Each cluster develops naturally, so the number and arrangement of rosettes will vary from plant to plant. Offsets can also be separated once sufficiently developed if propagation is desired.

Formerly known as Haworthia coarctata

Haworthiopsis coarctata was formerly classified as Haworthia coarctata and is still frequently encountered under the older name. It is native to South Africa's Cape Provinces and is sufficiently variable that several different forms and varieties have been described over the years.

Three botanical varieties are currently recognised: Haworthiopsis coarctata var. coarctata, var. adelaidensis and var. tenuis. The plants offered in this listing have not been assigned to a particular botanical variety, so they are sold simply as Haworthiopsis coarctata. Their relatively open rosettes and strongly clustering habit distinguish this form from the taller, more columnar forms also found in cultivation.

Growing Haworthiopsis coarctata

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix with bright light and good airflow. It is adaptable to filtered light and some shade, while brighter conditions can encourage stronger colouring and compact growth. Plants should be gradually acclimatised before exposure to intense Australian summer sun.

Water thoroughly when required, allowing the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid keeping the roots continuously wet. The numerous offsets can be left attached to produce an increasingly substantial specimen or separated for propagation once sufficiently developed.

Mature plants can produce slender flower stems rising well above the foliage and carrying numerous small, pale flowers.

Haworthiopsis coarctata plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.