How to grow Haworthia Cooperi successfully as a house plant

Haworthia cooperi var.gordoniana by salchuiwt is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Haworthia cooperi is a lovely succulent with rosettes of fleshy, translucent leaves. It is one of those ideal house plants that looks good and is easy to care for.

Like its sister plant, the Zebra Haworthia, the plant originates from the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soils and is often shaded by taller plants.

Growing conditions

As a houseplant, it’s an ideal choice for small spaces due to its compact growth and low-maintenance nature. It works well in various display styles, from minimalist pots on shelves to terrariums and grouped arrangements with other succulents.

Haworthia cooperi is easy to care for, making it suitable for beginners. It can tolerate occasional lack of care, especially in terms of watering, and adapts well to indoor light levels, as long as it is not exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

Here are the plant’s main care requirements:

• Light requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct sunlight.
• Water requirements: Moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Humidity requirements: Low humidity; tolerates typical indoor humidity levels.
• Temperature requirements: 60°F-80°F (15°C-27°C) optimal, with minimum 50°F (10°C).
• Potting soil requirements: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix.
• Fertiliser requirements: Low needs; fertilise once in spring with a balanced succulent feed.
• Propagation: By offsets or leaf cuttings, both reliable methods.
• Repotting: Every 2-3 years, or when pot-bound; repot in spring.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead leaves as needed.

Haworthia cooperi key facts

In its native habitat, Haworthia cooperi experiences hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters, thriving in conditions that mimic semi-desert landscapes. These native conditions mean the plant can handle a touch of neglect, so it is well adapted to the conditions found in most homes.

Its delicate, glass-like leaves can take on a bluish-green hue, and their unique transparency allows light to pass through, creating an ethereal effect.

• Scientific name: Haworthia cooperi
• Synonyms: Haworthia pilifera
• Meaning of scientific plant name: Named after British botanist Thomas Cooper.
• Common names: Window Haworthia, Cooper’s Haworthia
• Plant family: Asphodelaceae
• Where the plant originates from: Eastern Cape, South Africa
• Type of plant: Succulent
• Size (when grown indoors): 5–10 cm in height; can spread to about 10 cm wide
• Foliage: Rosette-forming, fleshy, translucent green leaves with a rounded, glassy appearance.
• Flower: Small, tubular white flowers, blooming in summer.
• Fruit: Does not typically produce fruit indoors.
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans (ASPCA).

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How to grow the plant

Light

Haworthia cooperi prefers bright, indirect light but should be shielded from intense, direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. Placing it near an east-facing window is ideal, as it provides sufficient morning light without the intensity of the midday sun. If placed in low light, the plant may become pale and lose its distinctive glass-like quality.

Soil and feeding

For optimal growth, plant Haworthia cooperi in a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix to prevent root rot. Alternatively, a 50-50 blend of potting soil and sand or perlite works well. Fertiliser needs are minimal; apply a balanced, diluted succulent feed once in spring to boost growth.

Watering

Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as Haworthia cooperi is susceptible to root rot in consistently damp soil. In winter, water sparingly as the plant enters a dormancy period. Overwatering can cause leaves to become mushy and discoloured, while underwatering may lead to shrivelled foliage.

Pruning

Minimal pruning is required for Haworthia cooperi. Simply remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed, snipping them off at the base to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.

Propagation

Propagation is most successful through offsets. These small clones grow around the base of the mother plant and can be carefully separated when they reach a reasonable size, typically in spring.

Step-by-step offset propagation:

1. Gently remove the plant from its pot.
2. Locate the offsets around the base.
3. Use a clean knife to separate the offset from the main plant, ensuring some roots are intact.
4. Let the offset dry for a day, then plant it in a small pot with well-draining soil.
5. Water in and allow to drain.

Common problems & solutions

• Leaves and shoots: Soft, mushy leaves indicate overwatering; adjust watering schedule.
• Roots: Root rot may develop if soil is too wet; repot in a dry, well-draining mix if detected.
• Pests: Watch for mealybugs; treat with insecticidal soap if spotted.
• Diseases: Fungal issues can occur in overly damp conditions; improve air circulation and reduce watering.

Winter care

During winter, reduce watering significantly as the plant’s growth slows down. Place it in a slightly cooler area, but avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Low light and dry air can be tolerated, but prolonged exposure to cold drafts should be avoided to prevent stress on the plant.

Other relevant plants

Haworthia is a genus with many other attractive species and cultivars that make excellent houseplants:

• Haworthia attenuata: Known as the Zebra Plant, it has dark green leaves with white ridges and is similarly easy to care for.
• Haworthia retusa: Also called Star Cactus, its leaves form a star shape and have the same translucent leaf tips.
• Haworthia truncata: This unique variety has flat-topped leaves with intricate leaf patterns, resembling a stone arrangement.

With its low maintenance needs and intriguing appearance, Haworthia cooperi makes a great plant addition to any home, offering a hint of natural charm with minimal care.