Cathedral window haworthia - Haworthia cymbiformis (Care, Characteristics, Culture, Images)

Cathedral window haworthia

Also known as: Window hawthornia, Boat-formed haworthia

Cathedral window haworthia is commonly used as an ornamental plant, either indoors or out. It grows in small clusters of daughter-plant clones. The latter part of its scientific name, Haworthia cymbiformis, means “boat-shaped” in reference to the fleshy leaves that curl into a point toward the center of each rosette.

Scientific classification

Species

Cathedral window haworthia (Haworthia cymbiformis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Early spring, Mid spring, Mid winter, Late winter

Bloom Time

White, Green, Purple

Flower Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cathedral window haworthia

Distribution of Cathedral window haworthia

Distribution Map

Cathedral window haworthia is originally native to Southern Africa. Today, it has spread to various other regions, thriving in conditions akin to its native habitat. As an ornamental plant, cathedral window haworthia has been widely cultivated in temperate and tropical regions worldwide, often used in succulent gardens and as houseplants.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Summer rainfall area, crevices on rocky slopes, rivers and streams with southern aspect

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Cathedral window haworthia is the perfect addition to rock gardens due to the fact that it grows fast, it's drought tolerant, and produces delicate white or pink flowers among boat-shaped leaves. Although often cultivated as a houseplant, this dwarf species can flourish outdoors in warm climates. It is often used for xeriscaping as ground cover.

Interesting Facts

The translucent tips are the strategy of Haworthia cymbiformis to deal with intense sun and optimize the absorption of light. Thanks to this characteristic, the sun can penetrate deep into the leaves, like through the window, reaching the deeper parts of the plant. In nature, Haworthia cymbiformis pulls itself down in ground during summer, but the plant still gets the light through these transparent tips.

Name Story

Cathedral window haworthia: When you look at translucent leaf tips of Haworthia cymbiformis, you can easily tell why this succulent is called cathedral window haworthia. Its see-through leaves look like a cathedral window, with dark lines running across each leaf.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Cathedral window haworthia, including the following common varieties :

Variegata

Care Guide for Cathedral window haworthia

Every 2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cathedral window haworthia, native to South Africa, is a drought-tolerant succulent that thrives in well-draining soil. Water every two weeks, allowing dry-out periods. Ideal for indoor growth, it requires pots with good drainage to prevent root rot and ensure proper moisture balance.

Fertilize: For cathedral window haworthia, use a balanced succulent fertilizer at quarter strength monthly during growing seasons (spring to fall), withholding in winter. Excess feeding can cause root burn. Adjust feeding seasonally for cathedral window haworthia's modest needs, promoting health and potential blooms.

Propagation: Cathedral window haworthia is propagated mainly via cuttings during Spring and Autumn. Successful propagation is marked by new root growth. It's important to maintain proper hygiene when taking cuttings to prevent infection.

Repotting: Repot cathedral window haworthia every two years in spring using shallow, wide containers for its fleshy roots. Use well-draining soil and water gently afterward. Ensure indirect light exposure to support consistent growth and preserve its translucent 'windows,' benefiting from its resilient nature.

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