Source: Wikimedia Commons
Haworthia truncata
IntermediateHaworthia truncata
A Haworthia whose flat-topped leaves look as if sliced off, arranged in two ranks like a fan. The cut-looking tips are translucent windows with line markings.
About
Haworthia truncata is a succulent in the Asphodelaceae from the Little Karoo of South Africa's Western Cape, around Oudtshoorn. In habitat it grows in the shade of shrubs with only the leaf tips at ground level, and contractile roots pull the plant deeper in drought. It is stemless, and its thick leaves are arranged in two ranks forming a fan, the chief feature separating it from var. maughanii, whose leaves form a rosette. The tips look sliced off: flat, rough-surfaced, with translucent windows carrying white or green lines. The markings develop only as the plant matures, and window size, thickness and pattern vary greatly between clones. Some plants stay solitary while others cluster. Growth is slow and it takes several years to make a good-looking plant. Japanese growers have selected and bred it intensively, producing many named selections with white lace-like window patterns. In Japan it is actively traded among specialists and enthusiasts.
Basic Info
Origin
Little Karoo around Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, South Africa
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial (little published data on lifespan)
Size
Stemless, medium-sized fan of leaves; window size varies by clone
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
A little dilute, low-nitrogen fertiliser in spring and autumn
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It does not need strong light; keep it in bright shade all year. Moving it suddenly from shade into direct sun scorches it, so keep it cool and partly shaded in summer.
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 hot summers and cold winters. Bottom-watering by soaking the pot suits it.
Temperature & Overwintering
Overwinter it at about 5°C minimum. When the soil is dry it survives brief light frost, but bring it indoors where frosts occur.
Soil & Repotting
Use a deep pot for the long, thick contractile roots and a gritty, free-draining mix. Part of the root system dies each year and rots in the pot, so repot often.
Propagation
Propagate by division, leaf cuttings, root cuttings or seed in March-May or September-October. To keep a named selection true, use division or cuttings rather than seed.
Pests & Cautions
It is prone to root rot, so avoid wet soil. Scale insects and aphids may attack flowers and root mealybugs the roots; constantly damp soil breeds fungus gnat larvae that damage roots.
Haworthia truncata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Haworthia truncata?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Haworthia truncata?
Haworthia truncata: watering & fertilizer — A little dilute, low-nitrogen fertiliser in spring and autumn. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Haworthia truncata?
The price of Haworthia truncata 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 truncata Schönland
Synonyms: Haworthia truncata f. crassa Poelln., Haworthia truncata var. tenuis (Poelln.) M.B.Bayer
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Haworthia truncata
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Haworthia truncata is not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Haworthia truncata
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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