Haworthia

The best-known representative is the zebra haworthia (Haworthiopsis fasciata or attenuata) with white cross-bands on dark green, pointed leaves. Alongside it are the soft, windowed species such as Haworthia cooperi and Haworthia truncata, whose translucent leaf tips look like little panes of glass — in nature they let light into the buried leaf interior.

Its big advantage over echeverias and cacti: haworthias are semi-shade plants. An east or west window is entirely sufficient, while harsh midday sun behind glass turns the leaves reddish brown. That makes it one of the few succulents for spots where others etiolate or scorch.

The most common mistake — as with almost all succulents — is watering too often. The thick leaves store water for weeks; if the rosette sits permanently wet, the roots rot invisibly in the pot. Water rarely but thoroughly, and pour off any excess.

Over time haworthias produce offsets and grow into small cushions. The pups are easy to separate when repotting and can be potted individually, so one plant becomes a whole windowsill collection over the years. The thin flower stalks with inconspicuous white tubular blooms can be left or twisted out.

In the workshop we like using haworthias in succulent bowls, mini gardens and as a row of matching pots on narrow windowsills. They combine well with echeverias and small aloes — the only requirement is that all partners tolerate the same sparing watering rhythm.