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Haworthia fasciata
Zebra Plant
South Africa — Eastern Cape; now reclassified as {Haworthiopsis fasciata} but still universally sold as {Haworthia}
Growing Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones
10 - 12These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
What's my zone? →Frost Tolerancetender
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 spp. based on molecular phylogenetics, but still predominantly sold under Haworthia spp.. 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.Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons