Cathedral Window Haworthia

(Haworthia cymbiformis)

Cathedral Window Haworthia (Haworthia cymbiformis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Haworthia cymbiformis, commonly known as Cathedral Window Haworthia, is an evergreen succulent plant native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, where it thrives on rocky outcrops and cliff faces. It is a small plant, reaching only about 0.3 feet (0.09 meters) in height and width, and forms dense clumps of rosettes. The thick, fleshy, light green leaves are boat-shaped and somewhat translucent at the tips, allowing sunlight to penetrate and illuminate the interior, resembling stained glass windows of a cathedral. This adaptation is particularly useful in its native habitat, where it often grows partially buried in sandy soils to avoid the intense sun.

Cathedral Window Haworthia is valued for its unique foliage and compact size, making it an ideal choice for container gardening, rock gardens, and as a houseplant. It blooms in spring and summer, producing small white flowers that are not particularly showy compared to its striking leaves. This plant prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue, so it’s best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. It is not known for having significant pest or disease problems, but mealybugs can occasionally be an issue.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 0.3-0.4 feet
  • Width: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rocky outcrops and cliff faces in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Näthaworthia

Scientific Names: , Haworthia cymbiformis, Aloe cymbaefolia, Aloe cymbiformis, Catevala cymbiformis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Haworthia cymbiformis (Haw.) Duval