Haworthia retusa

Common Names

Star Cactus, Window Succulent, Aloe Retusa, Cushion Aloe

Summary

Native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa, near Riversdale, this star-shaped succulent forms compact rosettes of thick triangular leaves with translucent window tips. In the wild it is typically solitary, though it can form offsets or clumps in cultivation. It has lime-green leaves with faint longitudinal lines and produces small tubular white flowers on stalks up to about 20 inches tall.

Bright indirect light is preferred, with partial shade tolerated. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. It is frost-sensitive and suited to USDA zones 9a–11. It is commonly used as a desk companion or in container gardens. Propagation is easiest via offsets, though leaf cuttings and seeds are possible. Pests may include mealybugs, scale, and spider mites.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-6 inches

Spread

4-6 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-11

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade to partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining succulent/cactus potting mix, sandy or sand-based with added perlite or pumice.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil

Soil pH

6.5-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Growth Rate

Slow-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings (leaf and stem), Offsets (division)

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and other pollinators (insects)