Haworthiopsis coarctata (Haw.) G.D.Rowley
Crowded Haworthiopsis / Clustered Haworthiopsis
Crowded Haworthiopsis is a caespitose species from the rocky gorges of South Africa's Eastern Cape, characterised by erect stems with slightly upward-pointing leaves densely covered in small white tubercles arranged in rows. The epithet coarctata refers to the compact crowded leaf arrangement on the stem.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Haworthiopsis |
| Growth Habit | Caespitose; multiple erect stems forming dense colonies. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (IUCN). Reclassified from Haworthia in 2013. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Porous mineral, low in organic matter, neutral pH. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Triangular leaves 4–8 cm, dark green with white tubercles in longitudinal rows; margins with small white teeth. Leaves are somewhat more erect than in H. reinwardtii and less recurved at the tip.
ecoErect stem 10–20 cm, densely leafy; produces basal offsets forming colonies. Var. adelaidensis has shorter stems and more compact leaves.
ecoInflorescence 20–30 cm; white flowers with green stripes, bilabiate and tubular. Spring flowering.
ecoFibrous compact root system; well-adapted to rock crevices and small pots.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Porous mineral, low in organic matter, neutral pH.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Remove plant from pot in spring or autumn.
- 2 Separate basal offsets with a sterile blade, retaining roots.
- 3 Callus for 1–2 days.
- 4 Establish in draining mix; water lightly after 7 days.
- 1 Remove basal leaves with the base intact.
- 2 Callus for 3–5 days in a dry, shaded spot.
- 3 Rest on moist mineral substrate without burying.
- 4 Roots in 6–12 weeks; slower process than via offsets.
H. coarctata has very densely packed leaves; inspect the base regularly to detect hidden pests.
Not inspecting the inside of the dense rosette for rot or root mealybugs.
Every 2–3 years in spring. The dense pattern can hide the need for repotting; check the roots.
Low-N fertilizer at 50% monthly from March to September. No fertilization in winter.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Non-toxic or very low toxicity for humans and pets.
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"H. coarctata was for decades treated as a variety or form of H. reinwardtii, and delimitation between the two remains debated for some transitional forms. Its 2013 transfer to Haworthiopsis relied on matK gene sequencing, which consistently placed tuberculate species in a clade separate from Haworthia sensu stricto."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.