Haworthiopsis attenuata, the Zebra Cactus, is a small, slow-growing succulent forming tidy rosettes of stiff, pointed dark-green leaves banded with raised white tubercles that resemble zebra stripes. Native to South Africa, it is not a true cactus but a hardy, undemanding succulent ideal for tabletops, windowsills and small pots. Tolerant of lower light than many succulents, it suits indoor culture and offsets readily to form clumps. Mature plants send up a tall, slender stalk of small white tubular flowers. Compact, attractive and forgiving, it is one of the best beginner succulents for Indian homes.
Specifications
| Family |
Asphodelaceae |
| Native region |
South Africa |
| Mature height |
10-15 cm |
| Mature spread |
10-15 cm |
| Growth rate |
Slow |
| Foliage |
Dark green leaves with white tubercle bands |
| Flower colour |
White |
| Flower season |
Spring to summer |
| Climate zone |
Arid, subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light; tolerates some morning sun. |
| Watering |
Water when soil dries; sparingly in winter. |
| Soil / mix |
Gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. |
| Temperature |
Thrives 18-30C; protect from frost. |
| Humidity |
Prefers low to average humidity. |
| Fertilizer |
Light feed once or twice in growing season. |
| Pruning |
Remove dried outer leaves; little needed. |
| Repotting |
Every 2-3 years or when offsets crowd pot. |
| Propagation |
By offsets (pups) or leaf cuttings. |
| Pests & problems |
Mealybugs, scale; root rot if overwatered. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to pets and humans. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
A neat, low-maintenance indoor and tabletop succulent for desks, windowsills and small dish gardens, valued for its striking striped rosettes and tolerance of indoor conditions.
Growing tips
In India grow it in bright, filtered light indoors or under shade outdoors, use a gritty mix, and water only when dry; cut back watering during the monsoon to prevent rot in the dense rosette.