Description
- Common names:
- Zebra Succulent, Zebra Plant, Zebra Haworthia, Zebra Cactus, Haworthia Cebra, Planta Cebra, Suculenta Cebra
- Botanical name:
- Haworthiopsis attenuata (syn. Haworthia attenuata)
- Description:
- A stunning small succulent featuring dark green triangular leaves adorned with distinctive raised white horizontal stripes, forming an elegant rosette perfect for desks and windowsills.
Features
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Rosette, Architectural, Compact Growth, Striped Leaves
- Origin:
- South Africa
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Modern, Minimalist, Office Desk, Bookshelf, Windowsill, Bathroom, Small Spaces, Succulent Gardens, Terrarium, Bohemian, Scandinavian
Care Guide
Care level:
Beginner Friendly+
This resilient succulent is exceptionally forgiving and perfect for first-time plant parents. It tolerates occasional neglect, irregular watering, and adapts well to most indoor conditions with minimal fuss.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or west-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light for 4-6 hours daily. If leaves turn brown or white, it's getting too much direct sun; if it becomes elongated and loses its compact form, it needs more light.
Water:
Drought Tolerant+
Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, typically every 2-3 weeks in summer and monthly in winter. Overwatering is the most common cause of death—when in doubt, wait another week before watering.
Humidity:
Low / Average Humidity+
Thrives in typical household humidity levels of 30-50% and actually prefers drier air, making it ideal for homes with air conditioning or heating. No misting or humidity boosting is needed.
Temperature:
Standard Room Temp+
Thrives in 18-27°C / 65-80°F with tolerance for slightly cooler temperatures down to 10°C / 50°F. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heaters to prevent temperature shock.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 9-11+
Hardy outdoors year-round in USDA Zones 9-11 where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. In cooler zones, it can spend summers outdoors in containers but must be brought inside before first frost.
Fertilizing:
Light Feeder+
Feed sparingly with a diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer at half strength once every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring through summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot in spring when roots emerge from drainage holes or the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix and choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as these plants prefer snug quarters.
Cleaning:
Dust Occasionally+
Gently dust leaves every few months with a soft, dry brush or use compressed air to maintain the plant's natural powdery coating. Avoid wiping with water, which can damage the protective layer and encourage rot.
Propagation:
Easy to Propagate+
Easily propagated by gently removing offsets (pups) that form around the base of the mother plant. Allow the offset to callus for 1-2 days, then plant in dry succulent soil and water lightly after a week.