Are you looking for a unique, low–maintenance succulent to add to your terrarium?
Look no further than the Zebra Cactus, also known as Haworthia fasciata.
With its distinctive veined patterns and sturdy structure, this vibrant and eye–catching succulent is the perfect addition to any terrarium succulent collection!
In this article, you‘ll discover how to care for and enjoy this wonderful plant, as well as its unique characteristics, and even some fun facts about its history.
So, let‘s dive in and get to know the Zebra Cactus!
| Quick Stats: | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Haworthia fasciata |
| Common Name | Zebra Haworthia, Zebra Plant, Zebra Cactus |
| Family Name | Asphodelaceae |
| Habitat | Dry African savanna |
| Temperature | 55°F to 80°F |
| Height | 4 to 5 inches |
| pH | 7.5 to 8.5 |
| Lighting | Bright, indirect |
What is Zebra Cactus?
The zebra cactus is a low-growing, clump-forming succulent and can reach a height of 4” to 5” tall.
Its fleshy leaves are striped with unique bluish-green or grey-green and white stripes that spiral out from the center rosette.
They are patterned similarly to those of an aloe vera plant.
While the leaves are often mistaken for those of an aloe vera plant, Haworthia recisa is not related to the aloe genus.
Zebra Cactus Facts
The Zebra cactus is a type of succulent native to dry climates of southern Africa, specifically the dry savanna and desert regions.
It prefers warm and dry climates with temperatures ranging from 55°F (12°C) and 80°F (27°C).
Humidity and water requirements for this plant are much lower than other succulents and an over-watering or high humidity may cause the plant to rot.
Description
The fleshy leaves of Haworthia fasciata are cone-shaped and grow outwards from the center rosette.
These leaves are marbled with unique patterns that coincide with their surroundings.
These patterns can be either a single solid stripe or an intricate combination of stripes and blotches.
The leaf blades are also covered in soft, velvety white trichomes that help the leaves store water.
Habitat
The zebra plant is native to dry, arid regions of southern Africa, specifically the dry savannas, deserts, and rocky hillsides.
The plant is tolerant of both moderate temperatures throughout the year and its natural dry climate.
pH Preference
Haworthia fasciata prefers a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5, which is slightly more alkaline than other succulents.
While the plant can still survive in more neutral or acidic pH levels, it is likely to suffer from nutrient deficiencies if the pH range isn’t in its optimal range.
Vivarium Type
The zebra cactus is quite an easy-going species.
With that in mind, it will not be too complicated when it comes to choosing the type of enclosure it is grown in.
It is best to try and replicate the plant’s natural habitat as much as possible.
Doing so will make it easier to provide this succulent plant with its basic needs.
The proper setup and theme of the enclosure will make a big difference to the overall look and health of the plant. Here are recommended vivariums it will do well in:
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- Terrariums – Fully terrain-based enclosures with little to no aquatic features.
Vivarium Placement
This succulent is a great addition to building a natural-looking terrarium.
It can be placed on the ground or in the background of a vivarium setup as it grows very slowly and won’t overtake the display.
To create a well-balanced display, one can pair Haworthia fasciata with medium or tall arrangements for visual contrast and depth.
Substrate
Haworthia fasciata does best in well-draining soil. To ensure this, one needs to mix together terrarium soil with some perlite or sand.
It’s important to only water the plant when the soil has dried out completely. This succulent can easily rot when exposed to too much moisture.
Lighting
Haworthia fasciata is well adapted to light in its native habitat and will thrive in indirect, bright, filtered terrarium light.
It should not be exposed to direct sunlight, but the plant will tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight a day if needed.
Buy Zebra Cactus
When it comes to buying a zebra plant, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Making sure the plant is healthy when purchased is essential for its success in a vivarium.
Vegetation that is already in poor conditions will have a very hard time adjusting to new environments.
Click the image below to find out more about the current price and other relative info about this plant.
Zebra Cactus Care and Propagation
The zebra plant can be propagated either through a leaf or stem cuttings, though leaf propagation is the most frequently used method.
To do leaf propagation, simply remove a leaf from the rosette and allow it to callus over for a few days before potting up in a well-draining potting mix.
Take care to not overwater or over-fertilize, as it can cause plant stress and rot.
How to Grow
Haworthia fasciata has a slow growth rate, especially in low light, and is easy to maintain in the home or with a vivarium.
It is best to keep the air around the plant dry since they are native to dry climates so it is important to always let the soil dry out before watering again.
This succulent is a great choice for those just starting out in the terrarium hobby, as it requires minimum maintenance to keep healthy.
Watering
Watering is a very important part of caring for a zebra plant. As a drought-tolerant plant, it should not be watered too often or it will rot.
It is best to only water when the soil is completely dry and allow the plant to dry out between waterings.
Plants Similar to Zebra Cactus
Adding diversity to an enclosure is key to an aesthetically pleasing setup. Try mixing up the look of your vivarium with different flora that can easily co-exist in the same environment.
Furthermore, if for some reason you find the zebra plant hard to acquire or would like to consider something similar to this plant…
Here are other plants you might find will do well with or in the place of Haworthia fasciata:
Conclusion
Haworthia fasciata is a great addition to any vivarium or home garden because of its striking visual appeal.
This terrarium plant is low maintenance and its slow growth rate makes it a great choice for hobbyists with busy lifestyles.
As a drought-tolerant species, it should be kept on the drier side and should not be overwatered or else it may suffer from root or stem rot.
With proper care and attention, Haworthia fasciata will thrive in any natural or terrarium setting.
No, Zebra cactus is not poisonous.
Yes, a Zebra Cactus (Haworthia fasciata) can bloom, although it is not common. The blooms are white or pink and star–shaped, and the succulent rarely produces more than one or two at a time.
1. Place your Zebra Plant in bright, indirect light.
2. Water your Zebra Plant only when the top inch of the soil is dry.
3. Feed your plant using a liquid fertilizer once a month during its growing season. (Bonus)
4. Make sure the pot has proper drainage holes to prevent rot.
5. Move the plant away from cold drafts.
6. Prune off any yellow or dead leaves.
7. Consider repotting your Zebra Plant in a new, slightly bigger home every couple of years.
You should water your Zebra cactus every 2–3 weeks during the summer and every 4–6 weeks during the winter.
Haworthia fasciata typically reach up to 5 inches in height and 4 inches in diameter.