Zebra Plant (Haworthia attenuata)

Zebra Plant

Haworthia attenuata

A striking succulent with white tubercled stripes, bringing a touch of desert geometry to any windowsill.

Bright, indirect sunlight or partial sun; avoid harsh afternoon direct sun which can turn leaves red or brown.
0.5/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright, indirect sunlight or partial sun; avoid harsh afternoon direct sun which can turn leaves red or brown.
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Watering Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2 weeks.
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Temperature Prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant.
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Characteristics

  • Leaves: Dark green, fleshy, triangular-lanceolate, forming a stemless rosette, covered with conspicuous white warty tubercles that form transverse bands on both inner and outer surfaces;
  • Flowers: Slender raceme inflorescence, bearing small, tubular, two-lipped white flowers with greenish-brown veins;
  • Roots: Thick, fleshy, and relatively shallow root system adapted for rapid water absorption.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly, allowing excess to drain completely. Wait until the soil is entirely dry before watering again.

Fertilization

Apply a diluted, balanced succulent fertilizer once at the beginning of the growing season.. Requires very little feeding; over-fertilizing can cause weak, leggy growth.

Banana Peel Tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 24 hours. Strain and dilute 1:1 with water. Apply to the soil, avoiding the rosette center. Do not leave raw peels on the soil to prevent fungus gnats.
Pruning
  • Gently pull away any dead, dried, or shriveled basal leaves from the bottom of the rosette;
  • Snip off spent flower stalks at the base using sterile scissors to redirect energy to foliage growth;
  • Remove offsets (pups) if the pot becomes too crowded, which can be used for propagation.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA.

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe to handle.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Popularized in European indoor gardening during the 20th century for its architectural form and exceptional resilience in centrally heated homes.

Usage: - **Ornamental**: Excellent for windowsills, desks, and small indoor spaces; - **Arrangements**: Frequently used in succulent bowls and well-ventilated terrariums.