Haworthia pentagona

Haworthia pentagona is a species that can be found under a larger number of synonyms. In nature it grows on karroid plains and lower slopes in the Eastern Cape region and the Little Karoo area of the Western Cape province.

The leaves are firm, fleshy, and deep green, arranged in regular rows. The upper surface of the leaf is almost flat, while the underside forms a keel from the centre towards the tip. Both the margins and the keel carry small triangular teeth. The plant produces stems branched from the base, which can reach up to about 20 cm in length. At first they grow upright, but with age they often gradually become trailing, forming a small clump.

The flowers appear in autumn and are one of the most distinctive features of this species. They have a somewhat hexagonal shape, can be up to about 1.3 cm long, and are white with green margins and yellow tips. They are carried on a tall flower stalk above the plant.

Haworthia pentagona is an undemanding plant best suited to partial shade, as direct sun may cause unwanted purple colouring. Light fertilising is possible during the growing season. If you are looking for a Haworthia with unusual autumn flowers and a firm leaf structure, Haworthia pentagona is an interesting choice.