Haworthiopsis coarctata

Haworthiopsis coarctata, formerly known as Haworthia coarctata, is a distinctive South African succulent with tightly packed, upward-pointing leaves that gradually form strong column-like growth. The dark green foliage is firm and textured, with small raised tubercles that give the leaves their characteristic rough appearance.

Stacked, column-like growth

Young plants begin as compact rosettes, but as the stems lengthen the leaves remain closely stacked around them, gradually producing the upright columns characteristic of the species. Established plants readily produce offsets around the base and can eventually develop into attractive clusters of multiple stems.

The leaves range from green to deep green and are typically marked with numerous small whitish tubercles. These raised markings, together with the firm, leathery foliage, give Haworthiopsis coarctata a very different appearance from the softer, more translucent-leaved species commonly associated with Haworthia.

Colour changes in stronger light

One of the interesting characteristics of Haworthiopsis coarctata is the way its foliage responds to changing light and growing conditions. Plants grown in brighter conditions can develop earthy shades of bronze, reddish brown and deep brown, while plants receiving less intense light generally remain considerably greener.

These colour changes are a natural response to growing conditions and can vary considerably through the year. Plants should nevertheless be acclimatised gradually to stronger sunlight, particularly before exposure to intense Australian summer conditions.

Native to South Africa's Eastern Cape

Haworthiopsis coarctata is native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa, where populations are concentrated around the Grahamstown region and extend towards Addo and the Great Fish River. In habitat it grows in stony soil among rocks on hillsides, including relatively exposed positions.

The species was formerly classified as Haworthia coarctata, a name still commonly encountered in cultivation. It is now accepted within the genus Haworthiopsis, which includes a number of the tougher, thick-leaved species formerly placed in Haworthia.

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, making it useful both as a container plant and in protected outdoor succulent plantings. Brighter conditions generally produce more compact growth and stronger seasonal colouring.

Water thoroughly when required, allowing the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid keeping the roots continuously wet. Offsets can be left attached to develop a substantial multi-stemmed clump or separated once sufficiently developed for propagation.

Mature plants can produce slender flower stems rising well above the foliage, carrying numerous small, pale whitish to greenish-white 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.