Star Cactus (Haworthia retusa)

Star Cactus

Haworthia retusa

Thick, windowed leaves glow like living stained glass. Compact succulent rosette; common names: Star Cactus, Window Haworthia.

Partial sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid prolonged midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch and discoloration
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce watering frequency significantly in winter dormancy
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Temperature Tolerates temporary mild frost down to 5°C; avoid extreme heat above 35°C which can cause leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, triangular leaves with translucent windowed tips, arranged in tight, symmetrical rosettes
  • Flower: Pale white, tubular blooms borne on thin 20–30 cm tall stalks
  • Stem: Short underground rhizome that produces offset clumps over time
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when soil is bone dry; discard excess water from saucer to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced succulent fertilizer applied once monthly. Do not fertilize during winter dormancy to prevent stress

Banana peel compost tea:Soak dried, chopped banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 before applying to soil; avoid raw peels to prevent mold or pest infestations
Pruning
  • Gently pluck dried outer leaves to maintain a tidy rosette shape
  • Trim spent flower stalks at the base after blooming to save the plant’s energy
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring to propagate new plants
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; safe for cats with no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for terrariums, small potted displays, and indoor succulent gardens