Haworthiopsis fasciata aka Lizard Tail

Taxonomy

Haworthiopsis fasciata, formerly known as Haworthia fasciata, is a rare succulent plant native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is often mislabeled in cultivation, as most plants labeled as H. fasciata are actually Haworthiopsis attenuata. This small, slow-growing succulent forms rosettes of upright, triangular leaves that are green in color and adorned with raised white markings or 'tubercules' along the edges. Despite its origin in Southern Africa, this plant is now found in homes all over the world. Its adaptation to harsh, dry climates is evident in its succulent leaves, which store water during periods of drought. Additionally, it employs a unique form of photosynthesis that allows it to conserve water by only exchanging gases at night.

Common names

Lizard Tail, Dragonclaw Aloe

How to care for Lizard Tail

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Lizard Tail due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Lizard Tail does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Lizard Tail, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Lizard Tail prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Lizard Tail is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

Lizard Tail prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Lizard Tail is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Lizard Tail’s native range is Southern Africa.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Lizard Tail blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia