From our perspective as Haworthiopsis plants, we are generally resilient and low-maintenance. However, when our environment does not align with our innate needs, we communicate our distress through clear physical signs. Understanding these signs is key to a harmonious coexistence.
Our roots are adapted to store water and endure periods of drought. When we are watered too frequently, our soil remains perpetually wet. This suffocates our roots, preventing them from absorbing oxygen and leading to rot. You will see our lower leaves turn soft, mushy, and translucent yellow or brown, often starting at the base. They may fall off at the slightest touch. The plant's core may become blackened and soft. This is a critical state for us. To help, you must cease watering immediately, remove us from the soggy soil, trim away any black or mushy roots with a sterile tool, and repot us into fresh, dry, well-draining mix. Allow us to recover in a shaded area for a week before considering a very light watering.
While we are drought-tolerant, we are not immortal. Extended periods without water force us to consume all the moisture stored in our leaves. You will notice our leaves begin to shrivel, becoming thin and wrinkled. They will feel limp and may curl inward dramatically as we try to conserve the last of our resources. The green colour may also appear faded or dull. Unlike the mushy softness of overwatering, this is a dry, papery desperation. Thankfully, the remedy is simple: a thorough, deep watering. Observe how our leaves plump up again within a day or two, returning to their firm, turgid state.
We thrive in bright, indirect light. When placed in a location that is too dark, we must stretch and strain to find a light source. This causes a condition you call etiolation. Our growth becomes elongated and stretched out, with abnormally long spaces between the leaves. Our form, typically compact and rosette-like, becomes loose, weak, and pale as our chlorophyll production drops. We become top-heavy and unstable. To prevent further stretching, please move us gradually to a brighter location. Be cautious of direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can cause a different problem.
Despite needing good light, we are not equipped for intense, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, especially suddenly after being kept indoors. This will cause sunburn on our leaves. The damage appears as brown, crispy patches or bleached, white spots on the areas most exposed to the sun. These scars are permanent and will not revert to green. While unsightly, it is rarely fatal if addressed. Simply move us to a location with bright but filtered light to prevent further damage. We will eventually grow out of the burned leaves, which can be removed once new, healthy growth has emerged.
