Source: Wikimedia Commons
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana
IntermediateHaworthia emelyae var. comptoniana
A Haworthia whose triangular leaves end in flat, smooth windows crossed by a net of white-flecked veins. Larger and usually greener than its relative H. emelyae.
About
Haworthia comptoniana is now treated as a variety of H. emelyae (Asphodelaceae). It comes from a very small area in the Willowmore district of South Africa's Western Cape, growing among quartz pebbles or under stones with most of the plant below ground and only the leaf tips exposed, and it is scarce in the wild. It is stemless, with 15-20 broad triangular leaves (4-5 cm long, 2 cm wide at the base) forming a rosette 5-9 (-12) cm across that seldom offsets. The flat, smooth, translucent leaf ends carry a network of white-flecked veins converging toward the tip, which is the main attraction. Typical H. emelyae is tinged purplish-brown with small tubercles on the leaves, whereas var. comptoniana is usually green, smooth and larger. The colour and contrast of the netting vary greatly, and plants with bold patterns are most sought after. Plants in habitat are reported to live about 15-20 years. In Japan it is a popular windowed Haworthia sold mainly by specialists, including many Japanese selections.
Lifespan of the Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana
The Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana lives About 15-20 years in habitat.
Size of the Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana
The Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana grows to Rosettes 5-9 (-12) cm across; leaves 4-5 cm long.
Basic Info
Origin
Willowmore district, Western Cape, South Africa
Lifespan
About 15-20 years in habitat
Size
Rosettes 5-9 (-12) cm across; leaves 4-5 cm long
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
A little slow-release or liquid fertiliser in spring and autumn
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Keep it in bright shade all year; strong direct sun spoils the colour and freshness of the windows.
Watering
It is a spring-autumn grower (March-June and September-November) and needs regular watering while growing. Water thoroughly when the surface dries and hold back in summer and winter.
Temperature & Overwintering
About 5°C is the safe minimum. Dry plants tolerate brief cold, but protect them from frost.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in a free-draining mix and repot just before or early in a growing season.
Propagation
It offsets little, so use leaf or root cuttings or seed. Propagate good patterns vegetatively to keep them true.
Pests & Cautions
Scale insects, aphids and root mealybugs can attack it; in wet soil watch also for fungus gnat larvae.
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the lifespan of Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana?
The average lifespan of Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana is About 15-20 years in habitat. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana get?
The mature size of Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana is Rosettes 5-9 (-12) cm across; leaves 4-5 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana?
Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana: watering & fertilizer — A little slow-release or liquid fertiliser in spring and autumn. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana?
The price of Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana (G.G.Sm.) J.D.Venter & S.A.Hammer
Synonyms: Haworthia comptoniana G.G.Sm., Haworthia retusa var. comptoniana (G.G.Sm.) Halda, Haworthia picta var. comptoniana (G.G.Sm.) Breuer
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Haworthia emelyae is not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Haworthia emelyae
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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