Image 1 of 2
Plant Reference
1 / 2
Haworthia fasciata
zebra plant
South Africa — Eastern Cape; now reclassified as {Haworthiopsis fasciata} but still universally sold as {Haworthia}
Overview
Haworthia fasciata (syn. Haworthiopsis fasciata) is the zebra haworthia, growing 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) tall and wide. Dark green pointed leaves in a compact rosette with raised white horizontal stripe bands (tubercles) on the outer leaf surfaces — the species name 'fasciata' means 'banded.' The white stripes are raised and textured (tactile, not flat markings). Tolerates lower light than most succulents: the native habitat in South Africa includes growing beneath larger plants in partial shade, giving it moderate-light tolerance (100–300 foot-candles). Direct afternoon sun can sunburn the leaves, producing white or brown scorched patches. Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Produces offsets (pups) from the base over time, forming clusters. Reclassified to Haworthiopsis based on molecular phylogenetics, but still predominantly sold under Haworthia. Well-draining cactus/succulent soil. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Growth rate is slow — 2–4 new leaves per year. The compact size suits small containers. Susceptible to root rot if overwatered; mealybugs in the tight rosette center are the primary pest.
Native Range
Haworthia fasciata is native to South Africa — Eastern Cape.Suggested Uses
Grown in containers of 0.25–0.5 gallon (1–2 liters) on desks, windowsills, and in succulent arrangements. Tolerates lower light than most succulents — suited to east-facing windows and moderate-light positions. Non-toxic — safe for households with pets.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 6"
Width/Spread4" - 6"
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Thin flower stalk with small white tubular flowers in spring to summer. The compact striped rosette is the year-round display.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White, small, tubular, on a tall thin stalk (insignificant)Foliage Description
Dark green with raised WHITE HORIZONTAL STRIPES (tubercle bands) on the outer surface — the 'zebra' pattern; forms a pointed rosetteGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Moderate indirect light (100–300 foot-candles) — tolerates lower light than most succulents. Avoid direct afternoon sun (sunburn risk). Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Well-draining cactus/succulent mix. Non-toxic to pets. Slow-growing.Pruning
Remove dried outer leaves. Separate offsets when they have developed roots. No routine pruning required.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons