Zebra Plant as a Houseplant

Zebra plants may have only been trending on the houseplant scene for several years, but written references go back to the 1600s. The genus Haworthiopsis, native to southern Africa, was first described and named as part of the genus Aloe. It was originally classified in the family Liliaceae, and now, it resides in Asphodelaceae. In 1809, the genus changed from Aloe to Haworthia in honor of English botanist Adrian Hardy Haworth, who studied succulents.

By studying the genus's genetics, in 2013, Haworthia was split, and Haworthiopsis was created. Opsis is Greek for "likeness." Thus,  Haworthiopsis has a likeness to Haworthia. One physical difference is that Haworthia leaves have smooth leaves and a thin, translucent epidermis akin to aloe leaves. Haworthiopsis species have thick, rough leaves.

The name zebra plant is commonly ascribed to two species – Haworthiopsis attenuata and Haworthiopsis fasciata. Though at times, H. fasciata can be found named "little zebra plant." Both are very similar in appearance, with white "striping" that occurs on the dark, thick green leaves. The stripes (or bonds) are warty projections called tubercles. Rosettes of pointed leaves grow to heights of 4 to 12 inches. The rosette diameter ranges from 6 to 24 inches. Both are slow growers. The difference is that H. attenuata has rough upper and lower leaf surfaces, whereas H. fasciata has leaves where the upper portions have smooth surfaces. Both species have similar cultural requirements to maintain as houseplants. Under ideal conditions, zebra plants bloom with a raceme of small, light purple flowers.

Cultural Requirements

Temperature and Humidity

Ideal temperatures range from 70 to 95°F, mimicking conditions in their native habitat. As temperatures drop below 50°F, zebra plant leaf structure will become damaged. No supplemental humidity is required.

Light

Bright, indirect. Exposure to the east or west is best, with a few hours of direct sunlight. A south-facing window would also work but may need to be filtered with sheer curtains as it may be too bright and cause browning at the leaf tips. Due to their small size, in their native habitat, they are shaded by larger succulents, rocks, and other objects.

Water and Fertilizer

Allow the top one inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water and drain thoroughly. Waterlogged soil and pooling in leaves will cause rot. The growing season for zebra plants occurs in spring and summer. Cactus fertilizer is better suited for this succulent, only during the growing season.

Soil and Repotting

A well-drained potting mix is needed, such as a commercial cactus/succulent potting mix. The best type of container would be a shallow terra-cotta pot. Since Haworthias are slow-growing, they can remain in the same pot for years. Repotting in fresh media should be done even if that happens. A good rule of thumb is to refresh the potting mix every 2 to 3 years.

Pests and Diseases

Haworthias are typically free of pests and diseases. Two problems may occur. One is mealybugs, which are a common problem for many houseplants. If the infestation is minor, remove the mealybugs. They can easily be killed by using a 70% or less solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. This can be applied directly to the mealybugs with a cotton swab. Remember to test the solution out on a small part of the plant. Wait a day or two to ensure it does not cause leaf burn. The other problem is root rot, often caused by a combination of prolonged wet soil and low light.

Propagation

As rosettes mature, they develop offsets or pups. The pups can be gently removed from the parent plant and rooted. Like other succulent plants, zebra plants can be propagated via leaf cuttings. Due to their slow growth, this method takes patience.