Source: Wikimedia Commons
Haworthia retusa
BeginnerHaworthia retusa
A Haworthia with glossy, thick triangular leaves in a star-shaped rosette; the upper half bends back into a flat, translucent window with vertical stripes.
About
Haworthia retusa is a succulent in the Asphodelaceae from clay hills between Heidelberg and Riversdale in South Africa's Western Cape, where it grows under shrubs or among stones. It has been in cultivation since the early eighteenth century. The stem is very short and 10-15 leaves form a plump, star-shaped rosette 5-10 (-15) cm across. Leaves are 2.5-4 (-8) cm long, thick and triangular, with the upper half flattened and bent back into a dark window marked with clear vertical stripes. The surface is smooth and glossy, turning brownish or purplish in bright light. It is one of the most variable species in the genus, linked to related species by intermediate populations. Wild plants stay solitary or form small groups, whereas many freely offsetting nursery plants sold as 'retusa' are actually the related H. turgida. In Japan it is widely sold as a basic windowed Haworthia and is a common parent for hybrids and selections.
Size of the Haworthia retusa
The Haworthia retusa grows to Rosettes 5-10 (-15) cm across; leaves 2.5-4 (-8) cm long.
Basic Info
Origin
Heidelberg to Riversdale, Western Cape, South Africa
Lifespan
Perennial (little published data on lifespan)
Size
Rosettes 5-10 (-15) cm across; leaves 2.5-4 (-8) cm long
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
A little slow-release or dilute liquid fertiliser in spring and autumn
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow it in bright shade all year. Direct sun will not kill it but slows growth and dulls the leaves; a little sun gives a reddish tint and a compact plant.
Watering
It is a spring-autumn grower (March-June and September-November). Water thoroughly when the surface dries in these periods and hold back in summer and winter. In a climate-controlled room it may keep growing all year.
Temperature & Overwintering
Let it rest over winter in a bright, frost-free place, and never leave it cold in wet soil.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining mix and repot just before or early in a growing season once the soil is spent and growth slows.
Propagation
Propagate by division, leaf cuttings or seed in March-May or September-October. Always remove leaves with their base attached.
Pests & Cautions
Scale insects and aphids may attack the flowers and root mealybugs the roots. Constantly damp soil breeds fungus gnat larvae that damage roots and stems.
Haworthia retusa FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Haworthia retusa?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Haworthia retusa get?
The mature size of Haworthia retusa is Rosettes 5-10 (-15) cm across; leaves 2.5-4 (-8) cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Haworthia retusa?
Haworthia retusa: watering & fertilizer — A little slow-release or dilute liquid fertiliser in spring and autumn. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Haworthia retusa?
The price of Haworthia retusa 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 retusa (L.) Duval
Synonyms: Aloe retusa L., Apicra retusa (L.) Willd., Catevala retusa (L.) Medik.
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Haworthia retusa
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Haworthia retusa is not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Haworthia retusa
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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