Haworthia bolusii Baker
Catevala bolusii, Haworthia arachnoidea var. bolusii, Haworthia bolusii var. bolusii
This species is native to South Africa (the hills around Graaff-Reinet).
Haworthia bolusii is a stemless succulent with fleshy leaves arranged in a basal rosette that grows to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. It produces offsets around the base to form small clusters. Leaves are incurved, pale green with green longitudinal lines and white translucent bristles. The long fibrous wavy bristles cover the leaves to form a web-like pattern. Flowers are white with brown or reddish-brown veins and appear mainly in late spring on slender, up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall inflorescences.
How to Grow and Care for Haworthia bolusii
Light: Place the potted plant in a bright area with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. White, yellow, or red-tinged leaves usually indicate that your H. bolusii receives too much sunlight. Deep shade tends to weaken the plant over a prolonged period. If your plant has spent the winter indoors, gradually move it outdoors into the bright sun to prevent sunburn.
Soil: Like all Haworthias, this plant does not like its roots to remain wet for prolonged periods, so the soil should be well-drained. Use a commercial potting mix for succulents or make your own.
Hardiness: This succulent likes warmer temperatures in the summer but cool in the winter. However, it does not like being too cold. H. bolusii can withstand temperatures as low as 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b.
Watering: In spring and fall, when the growth is most active, water H. bolusii thoroughly, then wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water your plant less during the winter when its growth slows down significantly. During the hottest summer months, when this plant is mostly dormant, water just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: H. bolusii does not require much fertilizer. However, for optimum growth, fertilization is a good idea. Feed only with a dilute fertilizer and only during the active growing season.
Repotting: This slow-growing succulent can stay in the same pot for years. However, to keep your plant healthy and happy, repot H. bolusii into fresh soil every two to three years in spring or fall. Repotting time is also the time to take offsets for propagation.
Propagation: Vegetative propagation, especially by offsets, is the quickest and most common method of propagating H. bolusii. This plant can also be propagated by leaves and seeds. Remove the offsets when they have started developing their own roots. Sow seeds in spring or fall in a well-draining soil mix.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Haworthia.
Toxicity of Haworthia bolusii
H. bolusii is considered non-toxic to humans and animals.
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