Duval Haworthia

Duval Haworthia (Haworthia retusa 'Duval') is a tiny, low growing succulent, about 10cm tall and wide, with fat, deep green leaves that are almost translucent. The tips are pointed and curve back, and the plant matures into a neat, geometric, glassy rosette. It is made for a small pot on a bright windowsill.

Why you'll love it

• Glassy, see-through leaves. The pale translucent patches in the leaf tips catch the light and give the rosette a jewel-like look.
• Tiny and tidy. At around 10cm it fits a shelf, a desk or a miniature succulent display.
• Sun or shade. The translucent areas let more light reach the centre of the plant, so it grows well in both shade and sun.
• Easy care. It asks for little water, a gritty mix and a spot with good light.
• Safe around pets. Haworthia is not considered toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Windowsills and desks. A small pot in bright light is the classic home. Rotate the pot occasionally so the rosette grows evenly.

Miniature succulent displays. Combine it in a shallow bowl with other small succulents. Space plants 10cm apart so the rosettes stay visible.

Frost-free gardens only. If you grow it outside, it needs neutral or alkaline soil and a site without frost. In acidic soil, or anywhere frosty, keep it in a pot.

Growing Duval Haworthia in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade. Protect it from frost. Outdoors it suits frost-free subtropical, warm temperate and Mediterranean gardens, and in colder places it is better kept as a potted plant.

Soil. Free-draining soil in pots or in the garden. Outdoors it needs neutral or alkaline soil, so avoid acidic ground.

Water and feed. Like most succulents, haworthias need little water. Weekly watering during the warmer months keeps plants looking lush. Fertilise in spring with an organic liquid feed mixed at half rate.

Pruning. None is needed. If the pot becomes crowded as pups develop, lift the young plants and re-pot them or share them with friends.

What to expect when it arrives

Duval Haworthia is sold as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. As a tiny succulent it arrives very small, so pot it into a free-draining mix and let it settle before it puts on growth.

Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse our succulents
• How to repot your plants like a pro
• Plants for balconies
• More indoor plants

Common questions

Can I plant Duval Haworthia in the garden?

Only in a frost-free site with neutral or alkaline, free-draining soil. Most gardeners will do better keeping it in a pot.

Why are the leaves see-through?

The translucent areas let more light into the centre of the plant. That is why it grows well in shade as well as sun.

How often should I water it?

Weekly in the warmer months, which keeps it looking lush, and less in cool weather. Make sure the pot drains freely.