Haworthia cooperi var. pilifera variegata Ø 14

This extraordinary variegated mutation is one of the most prized gems among succulent collectors. With its compact habit and extremely slow growth, it forms dense basal rosettes that remain close to the ground, gradually developing into elegant clumps up to 10–12 cm in diameter.

From a morphological standpoint, its most striking feature is the presence of leaf windows: the tip of each leaf lacks chlorophyll and is completely translucent, allowing light to penetrate deep into the internal tissues. This adaptation, typical of African succulents, maximises photosynthesis under intense irradiation while shielding chloroplasts from UV damage.

The natural variegation appears as asymmetrical streaks in cream, ivory, and soft green tones, making every single plant utterly unique. This polychromy results from a sectorial meristematic mutation, giving rise to areas devoid of photosynthetic pigments.

Exposure: bright but with filtered light; avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours to prevent leaf scorch.

Watering: moderate and infrequent; allow the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce to a minimum during winter.

Substrate: well-draining, with a high proportion of inert materials (pumice, volcanic grit, silica sand); slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Fertilisation: in spring – a single annual application of a balanced slow-release fertiliser (NPK 5-10-5) is more than sufficient for this low-nutrient species.

Flowering: in summer, it produces slender flowering stalks up to 30 cm tall, bearing small tubular whitish-green flowers – modest in appearance but of great botanical interest.

Curiosity: in its natural habitat in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province, it uses its leaf windows to capture light while remaining almost entirely buried, with only the translucent tips emerging to act as true “light collectors”.

It requires little care but demands consistency: waterlogging is its main enemy and can quickly damage the root system. With proper attention, this small botanical marvel will bring aesthetic pleasure for many years to come.

Not grafted
Code 1666