Oh my goodness, have you seen the Haworthia coarctata, now reclassified as Haworthiopsis coarctata? It's an absolutely adorable variety of the Haworthia genus! This coarctata species name, which means "compressed" or "pressed together" in Latin, refers to the tightly-packed leaves that wrap around its stem-like Mother Nature's embrace. 

This slow-growing flowering succulent, with its dark green leaves boasting white ribbing, will steal your heart from the moment you lay your eyes on it. But don't let its demure appearance fool you; when exposed to strong sunlight, these leaves can turn into deep brown or purplish-red hues that most people love. 

Its long stems stand tall with short curved leaves packed tightly around them - so densely that people often confuse it with Haworthia reinwardtii. However, coarctata has wider and fatter leaves that give it a more robust look. At full maturity, this low maintenance plant can reach up to 8 inches in height and produce a 12-inch flower stalk in spring or summer - talk about impressive!  

 Native to South Africa's Eastern Cape, this haworthia succulent is perfect for putting in decorating pots.  

Watering Needs 

Although haworthia succulents are commonly associated with desert environments, some varieties such as the Haworthia coarctata prefer to be watered using the "soak and dry" technique. This involves thoroughly watering the plant before allowing it to completely dry out between watering sessions.  

Both potted and outdoor haworthia should receive a deep soak once or twice a month during their growth periods, ensuring proper drainage so that the roots don't become waterlogged.  

Avoid watering your outdoor haworthia plant when it's raining or during winter months. 

Light Requirements 

The Haworth coarctata can flourish in hot and sunny conditions, needing a minimum of 5-6 hours of bright, indirect light daily, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. 

Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, so it's important to provide shade during the hottest part of the day. If this haworthia succulent is not receiving enough bright light, it can cause discoloration, an elongated abnormal appearance, as well as limit its growth.  

When grown indoors, place it in the sunniest place in your house. This succulent may benefit from shade in consistently hot climates. It is ideal to grow this Haworthia coarctata in a west- or south-facing window. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Haworthia coarctata prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture can promote root and stem rot. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

And let's not forget about fertilizing! Your haworthias only need a tiny bit applied once a year in springtime with a natural organic fertilizer that has lower doses of NPK (5-10-5). No harsh chemicals here, folks - just pure, natural goodness that lasts longer and encourages nutrient absorption, so your succulent stays happy as a clam.  

Hardiness Zones & More 

keep this Haworthia coarctata at warm temperatures, 65-75 F at all times. It doesn't like humidity because it is adapted to a dry, hot climate. 

It is an outdoor tropical succulent that can be grown in USDA zones 10 and 11. In cooler zones, it can be kept outdoors during the summer and brought in as the temperature drops to protect it from freezing temperatures.  

Be sure to add this Haworthia coarctata to your home or garden and enjoy its low-maintenance care while admiring its impressive display year after year.