Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana

Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana key facts

Growing Difficulty

Intermediate

Lifespan

About 15-20 years in habitat

Size

Rosettes 5-9 (-12) cm across; leaves 4-5 cm long

Watering

A little slow-release or liquid fertiliser in spring and autumn

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.

About Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana

Haworthia comptoniana is a succulent with flat leaf windows and a net-like pattern of white speckles. Rosettes reach 5–9 cm, leaves 4–5 cm, and it suits intermediate growers. Learn its features, care basics and how to choose a plant.

7 things to know before growing Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana

1. 1Know the difficulty

   This species is rated for intermediate growers. Its roots are easily damaged by stuffy air or too much water, so some experience with placement and watering helps. If you have grown a succulent before, you can start without much trouble.

2. 2Bright shade is best

   Soft light through a sheer curtain or bright shade suits it well. Strong direct sun can scorch the windows and leaf tips and leave marks, so shade it in summer. With too little light the leaves stretch and lose their compact shape.

3. 3Water after it dries

   Wait until the soil is fully dry, then water until it runs out of the drainage holes. Pour at the base of the plant, since water left in the center of the rosette can cause rot. Soil that stays constantly damp leads to root rot.

4. 4Fast-draining soil

   Mixing pumice or akadama-type grit into a succulent potting mix improves drainage and makes the plant easier to keep. Because it sends roots down deep, a slightly deeper pot works well. An unglazed terracotta pot, which breathes well, is another good option.

5. 5Repot spring or fall

   Repot about every one to two years in spring or fall, when the plant is actively growing. Shake off the old soil lightly, trim only damaged roots, and set it in fresh mix. Waiting a few days before the first watering helps prevent root damage.

6. 6Getting through seasons

   It grows best in spring and fall. In midsummer, keep it in airy, bright shade and water sparingly so it can rest. In winter, protect it from frost and freezing, and keep it fairly dry in a bright indoor spot.

7. 7Choosing a plant

   Look for a plant with clear windows, free of cloudiness or dents, and a well-defined net pattern. Check that the leaves are firm, the base does not wobble, and there is no discoloration where the leaves join the stem. If a photo is unclear, ask the seller about the plant's condition and how it has been grown.

Frequently asked questions about Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana

Q.Can a beginner grow it?

A.It is rated for intermediate growers. Beginners may feel more comfortable after getting used to basic succulent care, such as placement and watering. If you keep to a fairly dry routine, it is still possible to give it a try.

Q.How large does it get?

A.The rosette is usually 5–9 cm across, up to about 12 cm in larger plants, with leaves 4–5 cm long. It is larger than its close relative emelyae.

Q.How often should I water it?

A.Go by the soil rather than the calendar: water thoroughly once it has dried out completely. Cut back in midsummer and in winter.

Q.What is the leaf window?

A.The window is the translucent area at the leaf tip, a feature seen across the Haworthia group. In this variety it is flat and smooth, crossed by a net pattern with white speckles. Sun damage tends to leave marks, so grow it with some shade.

Q.How long can it live?

A.In its natural habitat it is said to live about 15–20 years. Lifespan in a pot depends on conditions and care, so good drainage and airflow are the key to keeping it for a long time.

Handy Growing Tools for Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana

Learn more about Haworthia emelyae var. comptoniana in the encyclopedia

More in this category